​As warm weather approaches this time of year, it is important that residents are aware of the risks associated with the spring thaw. With rising temperatures comes more time spent outside for many, as well as an increased chance of flooding due to seasonal melting snow, ice jams and heavy spring rains.

“Flooding is the most dangerous natural hazard in Ontario in terms of property damage, with creeks and rivers experiencing high flows in the spring due to rainfall and melting snow,” says Rick Bernard, Manager, Emergency Management. “That’s where emergency planning comes in – by knowing the risks, making an emergency plan and preparing a kit, you can reduce your flood risk.”

The Brampton Emergency Management Office (BEMO) has tips on how residents can protect themselves, their family and their property this spring.

Prepare for a flood
There are six steps you can take to prepare for a flood:

1. Know the risks. Be aware of what types of hazards might affect your home and what kinds of emergencies might impact your family.
2. Make a plan. Having a family emergency plan will save time and make real situations less stressful. 
3. Prepare a kit. In an emergency, you will need some basic supplies and should be prepared to be self-sufficient for 72 hours.
4. Talk to your insurance provider. Ask what kind of coverage you have for flood damage.
5. Protect your home. There may be steps you can take to make your property less vulnerable to flooding, such as installing backflow preventers and keeping valuables on higher floors.
6. Stay informed. Be aware of circumstances that could potentially lead to flooding.  

Protect your home
There are a number of things you can do to protect your home from a flood:

• Ensure water and melting snow have a path to drain. If it is safe to do so, try to clear a path to the nearest catch basin, so that water is able to flow freely. 
• Catch basins and downspouts can become clogged due to snow, ice, leaves and other debris. Ensure catch basins and downspouts are unclogged.  
• Check with your insurance provider to establish what kind of coverage you have for flood damage.  
• Monitor radio, TV and social media for changing weather updates.  

Prepare an emergency kit
Your emergency kit should prepare you to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours and should include:
 
• Food
• Water
• Extra set of car and house keys
• Small amount of cash
• Sleeping bag or warm blankets
• Toiletries
• First aid kit
• Medicine
• Pet supplies
• Flashlights
• Candles
• Battery operated radio

Assess your surroundings and reduce risks to proactively prepare for spring and any other weather events throughout the year. Discover what you can do to be safe and protect your property with BEMO’s Emergency Preparedness and Flood Prevention and Recovery Guides or request a copy at brampton.ca/prepared.

MEDIA CONTACT
City of Brampton Media Relations
mediarelations@brampton.ca