Flooding in our area is not a common occurrence. When it happens it is usually the result of spring run off or heavy rains.
What to do when it is flooding:
Flood Warning Action:
– Keep your radio tuned to 920 AM or 96.5 FM for information updates.
– Store fresh drinking water. Regular drinking supply may become contaminated.
– Verify operation of sump pump in your home and ensure you have a working battery operated radio as well as spare batteries.
– Install plugs in basement drains and check sewer back up valves.
– Remove all chemical products from the basement and other flood prone areas.
– Move personal belongings to upper floors.
– Take precautions to safeguard or minimize damage to electrical, natural gas or propane heating equipment. Consult your supplier for details.
– Consult local municipal authorities before building dykes.
– Contact your Agricultural Representative regarding the relocation of farm produce, livestock, poultry, etc.
During a flood:
– Turn off basement furnaces and outside gas valves.
– Turn off electrical power. If the area surrounding the switch is wet, stand on a dry surface and reach with a dry wooden stick. If it is unsafe to do this, call Manitoba Hydro to disconnect your power.
– Add 2 1/2 litres of disinfectant (e.g. chlorine bleach) to basement flood waters every two or three days.
– Listen on a battery powered radio for flood instructions.
– Never attempt to cross fast flowing flood water on foot. The strong current may sweep you downstream.
– Be aware that your normal water supply may be contaminated. The Medical Officer of Health will provide information on this issue.
– If evacuation becomes necessary, follow instruction of local officials and the evacuation instructions in this guide.