Flood planning

Flooding may not seem like it happens as much as some of the other climate related hazards we are experiencing more frequently, but it is happening more often. Flood in the Fraser Health Region happen in three ways: coast flooding due high tides, sea-level rise and storms, overflow of rivers due to heavy rainfall or dam release, and overland flooding. These events can have a big impact on our health. The most immediate risks are drowning and injury. If you live in a flood plain, its important to be prepared to evacuate, while looking after neighbours and pets.

In the aftermath and clean up, flooding can cause mould, increase contact with asbestos, and/or other air quality issues. Flood waters can also bring waterborne illness or infectious disease. We also need to be mindful of the mental health distress after flooding events.

On this page you will find information to help you prepare, mitigate, and recover if flooding impacts you and your community.

  • Tips on planning for a flood

    • Know if you live in a flood-risk area.
      • Flood zones are danger zones (advice for community members)
      • Check your municipality’s flood maps
      • Watch for flood warnings or advisories
    • Learn about stormwater management for your home.
    • Contact your insurance to learn more about flood insurance options available to you.
    • Download and fill-in the Prepared BC Flood Preparedness Guide (available in French, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Punjabi).
    • Prepare personal emergency supply kits for your home, car and work (plan for at least a three-day supply of food and water for each family member). Make sure you have your ID and BC Services Card.
      • Have an ample supply of any medications you might need. If you are unable to bring your medication with you, you can get prescription refills at any pharmacy using your BC Services Card or your ID and Personal Health Number. Find out more at Toward the Heart.
    • Have a grab-and-go kit ready if you have to leave your home quickly. Supply lists are available in English, French, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Punjabi.
    • Keep important papers in watertight containers and have a record of your valuables in a safe place.
    • If flooding is likely in your area, listen to local media reports for information.
    • Watch for warning signs: increased height and intensity of water flows, mudslides, debris in creeks, colour changes in water or leaning trees.
    • Consider arrangements for your pets and any livestock. Prepared BC has pet planning tips here.
    • Check on elderly or disabled neighbours to ensure they are aware of the flood threat.
    • Visit the Provincial Emergency Program website and your local community website for personal emergency preparedness information

    If you are the owner or worker of an agricultural operation, there is also guidance available from the Government of B.C.

  • Threatened by flood waters

    If your property is threatened by rising waters:

    • Bring in outdoor furniture; move essential items and any hazardous materials such as cleaners or pesticides to an upper floor or away from the area.
    • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves and unplug electrical items.
    • Prepare for the possibility of evacuation.
    • Visit BC Hydro for information on floods and electrical safety.
    • Visit Fortis BC for information on floods.

  • If you must evacuate

    • Always follow the instructions of local emergency officials.
    • Ensure each family member has waterproof clothing and footwear.
    • Lock all doors and windows and double check to ensure gas, electricity and water are all shut off.
    • Turn off your gas at the main shut-off valve. Don’t turn it back on yourself.
    • Take extra care while driving – familiar roads may look dramatically different when flooded. Do not drive into flooded areas. Check the road conditions before you leave.
    • Do not walk through moving water. Less than 15 centimetres of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, go where the water is not moving and watch for tripping hazards.
    • In the event of an evacuation, make sure you register at your local community reception centre.
    • Keep disaster response routes clear.

  • After a flood

    • Numerous hazards may be present in a flood zone, and they may be difficult to spot due to the surrounding damage and the emotion of returning home. Key hazards and guidance are provided in the Flood zones are danger zones (bccdc.ca) document.
    • Listen for news reports to learn whether the water supply is safe to drink. Watch for boil water advisories.
    • Avoid floodwaters – it may be contaminated or electrically charged from downed power lines.
    • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
    • It may not be safe to clean your home or property after a flood due to contamination. Please see HealthLinkBC for precautions to take. Depending on the extent of damage, if possible, consider hiring a professional.
      • Call your insurance provider before you start your clean up activities.
      • Investigate disaster financial assistance (gov.bc.ca) - Provides information and links to available Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) for uninsurable events such as overland flooding or landslides
    • Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and harmful chemicals. HealthLink BC has information in multiple languages about how to clean up after a flood.
      • Information on mold clean-up for homeowners and renters is also available from the US CDC.
    • Do not turn on electrical or gas switches or wet electrical equipment unless verified by a professional. Find one using Technical Safety BC’s find a licensed contractor tool.
    • Throw out food contaminated by either flood waters or being left in an unplugged fridge.
    • Contact your utility companies.
    • Frequently asked questions for Landlords and Tenants is available from the BC Government.

  • Taking care of mental health during flood events

  • Further resources on flood related hazards (Power outages, carbon monoxide, mould, and asbestos)

  • Private well resources

  • Resources for licensed businesses

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