Preparing for a flood

• Store valuables and important items or documents in water-tight containers or in higher places.
• Clean your gutters regularly.
• In the winter, clear snow at least 1 to 1.5 metres (3 to 5 feet) away from your home’s foundation.
• Find out if your home insurance covers flooding.
• Find out what to do about fuel tanks and hazardous substances in flood areas.

Make an emergency plan so everyone in your household knows what to do in an emergency. This can include how to contact each other and where to meet.

​In your emergency kit you'll need basic supplies for every member of your household in an emergency. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours without power or running water.

Have a plan for your pets in case of an evacuation. Include where your pets will go and how they'll get there. Your emergency kit should contain supplies for your pets including a crate for each animal. The Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team has an emergency preparedness checklist and more information about caring for pets and non-commercial livestock in an emergency.

If you're a farmer, learn how to make a plan for livestock in an emergency.

If you suspect flooding is going to occur, you can prevent damage to your home by building a sandbag berm.