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The sun is getting stronger, winter gear is slowly diminishing, blossoms are beginning to show, hope is starting to grow – it’s springtime! In Canada, there are a few things to keep in mind to be ready for specific emergencies the new season can bring, such as increased risk of flooding as snow melts away.

It’s a time of year many Canadians look forward to as the weather warms up, leaving behind the thought of heavy snow for another season. But while we look forward to the blossoming of spring, there are a few things to keep in mind that could affect you and your family.
Being prepared means thinking about the possibilities.

Ready for flood season? When temperatures rise, especially quickly after a heavy snowfall, we best be ready for our Canadian thaw. When it rapidly warms up, the risk of flooding increases so you – and your home – should be prepared.

At the Rigaud public library, a dozen people impacted by the floods have come to meet Red Cross volunteers in order to register and receive emergency assistance. In the waiting room, the mood is unpredictable. Laughter can quickly give way to sorrow, and for good reason. This is the second flood in three years for most of the residents here.

One of the best ways to be flood ready is to have an emergency kit in your home with enough supplies to meet your family’s needs for at least 72 hours. Most people remember to put the basics in their kit like, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, and water but there are things you may not think to include that you and your family need.

Research shows that only 6% of Canadians are aware of the flood risks in their area. However, there are simple things every homeowner can do to prepare themselves for flooding this season. Be ready for flooding with this checklist.
 

Floods are one of the most common and costly disasters. However, even though flooding is common throughout Canada, most homeowners are unaware of the risk. In 2018, Partners for Action partnered with Canadian Red Cross to develop a project designed to inform Canadians about the risks and create more resilient communities.

As the flood waters in Kootenay Boundary Regional District in B.C. receded, the extent of the damage was revealed. The Canadian Red Cross is supporting the recovery efforts by providing cleanup kit, as well as direct financial assistance to impacted households in need on a case-by-case basis.