City taking pre-emptive flood prevention measures out of an ‘abundance of caution’

The city is taking time during the national Emergency Preparedness Week May 3-9 to prepare for a “second scenario” like a flood, windstorm or another event on top of the pandemic.

The city says typical flood response is done in a relatively short time, but with restrictions around COVID-19 response efforts may take more time than usual.

“There are certain emergencies that have a higher probability than others, and with a river running through our city, flooding is always at the back of our minds in springtime,” Brown adds. “Thankfully, we have measures to put in place for flooding, which is what we will begin to deploy in the coming days.”

Brown said the South Saskatchewan River is currently flowing at about 300 cubic metres per second. He said that’s high right now but that can be a good thing, because it’s preferred the snowpack comes down early instead of in June when rain is usually more frequent.

Residents and businesses also have a part to play to prepare.

The city says those historically impacted by flooding may already have a sanitary sewer backflow isolation valve in their building and suggests now is a good time to practice installing the test gate valve and perform any preventative maintenance like lubricating the “O” ring and removing debris that would prevent a tight fit. This video provides more information.

“Emergencies typically come without warning, but with thoughtful planning, you can be better equipped to respond appropriately and keep yourself, your family and your pets safe,” said Brown.

Hatters are encouraged to create or annually review an emergency evacuation plan, assemble or update an Emergency Grab and Go Kit. Make sure items are in working order and nothing is expired, have an extra amount of medication on hand, package important documents (like passports and birth certificates) so they can be grabbed in a moment’s notice, and arrange a safe place to go like family or friends in case you need to leave home for a period of time.

by Chris Brown

City taking pre-emptive flood prevention measures out of an ‘abundance of caution’

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