The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George is reminding residents to be prepared for the possibility of spring flooding.
Residents living near rivers and streams should take extra precautions to reduce the risk of flooding, district emergency services coordinator Anita de Dreu said in a press release.
“Temperatures are on the rise and that means rivers, streams and groundwater are,” de Dreu said in a press release. “Conditions can change rapidly so take time now to prepare your property, home and family in the event of flooding.”
Residents living near streams and rivers should take the following precautions:
• Prepare personal emergency supply kits for your home, car and work (plan for at least a three-day supply of food and water for each family member).
• Have a grab-and-go kit ready if you have to leave your home quickly.
• Keep important papers in watertight containers and have a record of your valuables in a safe place.
• If flooding is likely in your area, pay attention to the local media for information.
• Watch for warning signs: increase in height and intensity of water flows, mudslides, debris in creeks, colour changes in water or leaning trees.
• Banks of rivers and streams may be unstable and dangerous.
• Keep a safe distance away from fast flowing water, especially children.
• Teach your children about flood safety.
• Consider arrangements for your pets and livestock.
• Ensure your civic address is clearly posted.
• Make plans for emergency travel with a friend or neighbour if you don’t have a vehicle or access to one.
• Sign up for the Regional District’s Public Alerting System at https://bit.ly/34WrgX7.
“We understand that everyone is trying to manage with the reality of COVID-19 and the measures put in place to deal with that,” de Dreu said. “Consider where you would go if you had to evacuate. If you have pets and livestock that need to be moved, what arrangements need to be considered now. Develop a plan that makes sense for you and your family.”
For more information go online to www.rdffg.bc.ca.
