Before a Flood
Be Prepared
Floods are the most frequent natural hazard in Canada. They can occur at any time of the year and are most often caused by heavy rainfall, rapid melting of a thick snow pack, ice jams, or more rarely, the failure of a natural or man-made dam.
Know the risks, make a plan, get a kit, reduce your flood risk. Are you prepared? It’s never too late. Emergencies can happen at any time and your best defense is to be prepared.
1. Know the Risks
Like any town, Innisfil is vulnerable to a variety of natural and human- caused hazards. Make sure you and your family members know what the hazards and risks are in the area you live. Even if you feel your community has a low risk of flooding, remember that anywhere it rains, it can flood. Just because you haven’t experienced a flood in the past, doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. Floods occur because of a number of factors including rainfall, topography, flood-control measures, creek-flow, old construction practices and new construction and development.
2. Make a Plan
Make sure everyone in your family knows what to do before, during and after an emergency such as a flood. Hold a family meeting to discuss how you can best prepare for an emergency. Have a plan. If you live alone, develop a plan for yourself with links to neighbours and friends. Keep a copy of your plan in a safe place, such as your Family Emergency Go-Kit. Photocopy your plan and keep it in your car and/or at work.
3. Get a Kit
In an emergency you will need some basic supplies. You may need to get by without power or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Make sure your kit is easy to carry and accessible to all members of your household.
Preparing a Go-Kit
In an emergency you will need some basic supplies. You may need to get by without power or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Make sure your kit is easy to carry and accessible to all members of your household.
Contents to include:
- Flashlight
- Battery-operated or crank radio
- Spare batteries (for flashlight and/or radio
- First-aid kit
- Candles and matches/lighter
- Extra car keys and cash
- Important papers (copies of identification, insurance policies)
- Non-perishable food and bottled water (as much as your family can manage to carry)
- Items needed to open food (such as a manual can opener)
- Clothing and footwear
- Blankets or sleeping bag
- Toilet paper and other personal hygiene items
- Medication (especially prescription—72 hours worth at least)
- Eyewear (glasses/contacts)
- Whistle (to attract attention, if needed)
- Playing cards (or other quiet games/toys)
- Paper/pencils/pens
- Map of your community (for locating shelters)