As a series of storms move through northern California, Cal OES continues to monitor the weather around the clock for possible impacts to communities and reminds all Californians to stay prepared for possible flooding. Sandbags can reduce the risk of damage to property.
Sandbags are often provided by some local governments. Contact your city, county, fire department or public works agency to find out where you can get sandbags in your area. Double check what materials they may or may not provide.
See current sandbag locations below and proper use instructions:
Know When to use Sandbags
Sandbags have a variety of uses, but individuals and families should know their level of risk. MyHazards can help all Californians understand the types of risks that could impact their properties and neighborhoods. Also, while building a sandbag barrier may alleviate flooding into your home, everyone should continue to follow local authorities when they issue evacuation warnings and orders.
How to Use Sandbags
During heavy and sustained rainfall, high water and flooding can cause damage to homes and businesses. With proper preparation, you can reduce the risk of damage to your property. Cal OES offers these reminders on how to use sandbags safely during the next storm.
How to Fill Sandbags
It’s important to use sandbags when you live in an at-risk area for flooding. Follow these safety tips for filling sandbags:
Wear Protective Gear: When filling sandbags, wear gloves to protect your hands from blisters and cuts, wear safety glasses or goggles to prevent getting sand in your eyes and wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling dust particles. If you have a pre-existing respiratory condition, such as asthma, you may need to avoid filling sandbags altogether and seek assistance.
- Fill Sandbags Properly: Sandbags should be filled no more than one half to two-thirds full to allow room for the bags to be stacked and to prevent the bags from bursting.
- Bring a Partner: Filling sandbags can be tough alone. Grab a friend or relative to assist with holding the bag open and on occasion lifting the bags for transport.
- Sandbag Types: There are different types of materials that can be used as sandbags. Burlap and plastic are the most common and, if left unused, can be stored for a long time. The bag material can be a polypropylene, poltyethylene or a polyamide fabric.
- Sandbag Soil: There are different types of material to fill sandbags with such as silt, clay, gravel or a mixture of any of these. However, sand has been proven to be an optimal material to help divert the flow of water.