Actions you can take to properly plan ahead for potential flooding.
For more information please see our Frequently Asked Questions section or contact us at drmfloodinfo@drmprogram.com
Waterproof your basement and prevent sewer backup
- Know where your floor drains, back-flow prevention and clean-out sewer lines are located
- Install a backflow prevention device on your sewer pipe to reduce the risk of sewage entering your basement
- Install a weeping tile backup prevention device to reduce the flow of water from entering your basement
- Check your sump pump periodically to make sure it is operating as it should
- Plug toilets, sinks, sewer standpipes and drains with rags or caps where possible during a flood
Eavestroughs and downspouts
- Eavestroughs and extensions should drain away from the home and its foundation at least 1.5 metres away and soak onto landscaped areas vs concrete areas and away from your neighbours’ homes
- Do not connect extensions to sanitary sewer lines or weeping tiles
- Ensure that leaves and debris are cleared from gutters to prevent rainwater accumulation
Sandbagging
- Be ready with a supply of sandbags and temporary flood measures in high-risk areas
- Plan how many sandbags you will need and who will help install them
- It could take two people an hour to position 100 sandbags to build a one-foot high wall
- Assign flood-ready tasks to family members including sandbagging for stronger members
- Have sandbags, sand, burlap and plastic bags, rags, shovels stored on hand and on higher ground
