10 steps to take before flood season

It's time to prepare for flood season.

When it rapidly warms up, the risk of flooding increases so you – and your home – should be prepared.

Steps to take before flooding occurs:

Did you know flooding is the most frequent natural disaster in Canada? Here’s what to do to prepare your home in case of flooding.

Before

1. The key to staying safe is to prepare and to have an emergency plan in place.
2. Know the flood risk in your community by calling your municipality and insurance company.
3. Know and practice evacuation routes.
4. Monitor local weather and alerts
5. Protect your valuables in waterproof containers. Place them above potential water levels. 
6. Put sealant around basement windows and the base of ground-level doors. Remove built-up snow from window wells and by doors.
7. Raise large appliances in the basement above the potential water level from a flood.
8. Make sure your sump pump is working and install a battery-operated backup. 
9. Talk with your family and neighbours about what you would do during a flood.
10. Have practice drills with your family, so you know what to do and are prepared.

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What to do if you experience flooding:

During

• Listen to area radio and television stations for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress.
• Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
• When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.
• Turn around – don’t drown! Avoid walking and driving through flooded waters. They could be deeper than you think.
• Keep children and pets away from flood water.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.

After

After flooding occurs, consult the Canadian Red Cross Guide To Flood Recovery for step-by-step instructions. Continue to take precautions and listen to and follow directions from local authorities.

Then find out what steps to take in recovering from flooding here: Floods: Information and & Facts

For more tips on being ready for emergencies, visit redcross.ca/prepare

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• Be ready for flooding checklist
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• 8 essential tips for after a flood