Top tips to reduce flood risks at home and in the community

(NC) Communities in Canada are facing increased flood risks, with 1.5 million homes highly exposed. As the likelihood of more severe and frequent storms increases, so does the need for flood protection measures at the household and community level.

Prevention starts at home. A variety of effective actions are available, ranging from low-cost maintenance and simple do-it-yourself upgrades to bigger tasks requiring professional assistance. Low-cost options include removing debris from the nearest storm drain and cleaning out eavestroughs a couple of times a year. Inside the house, periodically checking for leaks in plumbing, fixtures and appliances, as well as testing sump pumps and cleaning out backwater valves, ensures that everything is operating as it should.

Simple do-it-yourself upgrades include extending downspouts and sump pump discharge pipes away from the foundation. In the basement, move boxes and other obstructions away from the floor drain to allow water to flow freely. Installing a flood alarm can help detect leaks and signal any potential flooding issues before they cause problems.

For those planning to make bigger upgrades, working with a plumbing contractor to install a backwater valve can help stop water or sewage from coming in. Outside the house, a landscaper can correct grading to direct water away from the building or convert paved areas to vegetation, such as a rain garden which absorbs more water.

Beyond the home, municipalities play a critical role in protecting communities from severe weather. There are large-scale programs available across the country that provide flood protection measures for communities at risk, such as Intact’s Municipal Climate Resiliency Grants. The grants help build resilience through a variety of initiatives.

In New Brunswick, the City of Fredericton launched a Neighbourhood Flood Risk Tool to provide easy access to online flood prevention guidance. Residents can input their addresses to see if they are at risk and learn tips to reduce the risk of flooding around their properties. In PEI, the City of Charlottetown offered rebates covering 75 per cent of eligible material and labour costs, up to a maximum of $1,000. More than 90 properties completed flood protection upgrades, such as installing sump pumps, backup batteries, backwater valves, and water monitors and alarms.

Communities can learn more about the grant program and how to apply at intactfc.com/mcrg.