News
Be Prepared for Flooding
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Published: Wednesday, 09 February 2022 13:36
Winter in Atlantic Canada brings snow, freezing rain, ice, rain, high winds, and power outages. This year, high levels of snow have produced more snow melt and runoff than in previous years.
Did you know that floods are the most frequent natural hazard in Canada? They can occur at any time of the year and can cause significant damage to your home and property. Sewer backups, leaks, broken water mains, torrential rainfalls, and sudden ice thaws can result in flooding and storm surge.
Here are some steps you can take to prepare for a flood, and respond when confronted with one.
Before a Flood:
- Clean grates and culverts removing any debris obstruction to assist water flow.
- Put weather protection sealant around ground-level windows and doors.
- Install drainage for downspouts to ensure that water moves away from the buildings.
- Clean eavestrough so rain can drain into downspouts.
- Consider installing a sump pump and zero reverse flow valves in basement floor drains.
- Do not store your important documents in the basement. Keep them at a higher level, protected from flood damage.
- Set aside a supply of drinking water in case your drinking supply becomes contaminated.
- If your property is close to water, consider piling sandbags.
- Put away lawn furniture, planters, picnic tables, small boats or anything that could be swept away in a flood.
- Obtain insurance and review coverage annually to ensure you are protected. All insurance policies are different–review your insurance with your broker.
- Know who to call for assistance. Not all fire departments assist with flooding or flooded basements as it can damage equipment. Research local disaster restoration companies to have their contact information handy.
If your home becomes flooded:
- Turn basement furnace off and shut off outside gas valves.
- Turn off electrical power. If your main power box is not in a dry, safe location, do not attempt to turn it off. Contact Nova Scotia Power at 1-877-428-6004 or your electric utility provider.
- Do not stand or wade in water where contact has been made with electrical equipment.
- Do not use well water for drinking, cooking, or bathing until the water has been tested and determined to be safe. If you have questions about your water, contact your local Nova Scotia Environment office by calling 1-877-9ENVIRO (936-8476).
