Protect Yourself and Your Property from Flooding

With temperatures gradually rising and moisture being released from the accumulated snow, residents should double-check their homes to minimize the risk of water leaks and other damage.

As the snow melts, it will collect in natural and manmade collection systems such as storm sewers, ditches and creeks. Always be cautious of open water, as it may be deeper or more unstable than it appears.

For the most up-to-date information, visit the Province’s Flood Forecasting and Warning Program page to find:

• A map of local and provincial flood messages (warnings)
• Information about the types of flood messages issued by the province, conservation authorities, and other agencies
• Who to contact for more information about local flood messaging and on-the-ground flood response 

Prepare for a flood by creating an emergency preparedness plan and kit for you and your household. You can also get emergency preparedness guides for people with disabilities, children, seniors, and pets.

Take steps to prevent flooding in your home:

• Extend downspouts at least 2 metres (6 feet) from your home to move water away from the building.
• Shovel snow at least 1 to 1.5 metres away from your home’s foundation.
• Put weather protection sealant around basement windows and ground-level doors.
• Keep gutters and nearby storm drains clear of debris.
• Remove debris from water drainage systems such as weeping tile, culverts and ditches.
• Install paving surfaces for sidewalks and driveways that allow water to drain through, such as gravel, cobblestones, or spaced pavers.
• Find out if your private well could be impacted by flood water and maintain wellhead protection.
• Test sump pumps and install a backup power system, such as a battery backup or generator. Test your backup system regularly.
• Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into your home’s drains.
• Check your basement for signs of flooding and consider installing a water-sensing alarm system.

For more information, please contact Heidi Jennen, Community Emergency Management Coordinator, at 519-376-4440 ext. 3223 or email hjennen@owensound.ca

Quick Facts:

• Flooding in Ontario is typically caused by rapidly melting snow, ice jams, high lake levels or storm surges, heavy rains, and thunderstorms
• Floods can happen at any time of year in both urban and rural areas.
• Flash floods can happen suddenly due to heavy rain or fast-melting snow and can quickly become dangerous.
• Knowing about flood risks and how to prepare for them will help keep you safe and minimize damage to your property.
• Floods are the costliest natural hazard in terms of property damage, causing shoreline erosion, damage to roads and infrastructure, and power outages
• For more details, visit the Province of Ontario’s website

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