Page 31 - Perth County Emergency Preparedness Guide

be prepared

FLOODS

Floods are the most frequent natural hazard in Canada.
Parts of Perth County are susceptible to flooding during the
spring run-off, particularly if there is a combination of heavy
rainfall and rapid melting of the winter snow pack.

PREPARATIONS TO REDUCE FLOOD DAMAGE
• Install a sump pump and zero reverse flow valves in
basement drains.
• Do not store important items or documents in the
basement.

• Apply weather sealant around basement windows.
• Extend eavestrough downspouts to ensure rainwater
is discharged away from your home.

IF FLOODING IS IMMINENT
• Take precautions to safeguard • Remove the toilet DO NOT ATTEMPT
electrical, natural gas or bowl if you have a TO TURN OFF YOUR
propane heating equipment. basement washroom. ELECTRICITY IF ANY
Seal basement drains
• If there is time, consult your and toilet connections WATER IS PRESENT.
electricity, water and gas with wooden stoppers Water combined with
supplier for flood instructions. or rubber plugs to live electrical wires

• Turn off your basement prevent contaminated creates a potentially
furnace and outside natural water from entering.
gas or propane valve. • If there is time, you lethal electrocution
may be able to protect hazard. Leave your
• Move basement furniture, your home with
electronics and appliances sandbags or plastic home immediately and
upstairs. (polyethylene) barriers. inform authorities. Do

• Take chemicals and toxic Check with local not return until it is
substances out of basement officials for instructions safe to do so.
storage. and information on
supplies.

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EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS GUIDE - ARE YOU READY?