After two major flooding events in Windsor-Essex in less than a year, the local health unit is urging residents to be prepared.
Jyll Mackie is the Emergency Preparedness Coordinator with the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.
She says being ready will make the situation less hectic.
"We say that the best way to prepare for any type of emergency is to know the risks, make a plan, prepare a 72 hour kit and stay informed," says Mackie. "So, it's become evident over the last couple of years with flooding that it's a risk in Windsor-Essex County and we need to make sure we're preparing ourselves accordingly."
As many households still wait to have their basements cleaned out and repaired, the health unit is also reminding residents of the health risks associated with wet carpet, drywall and furniture.
Flood damaged garbage put at the side of the road in west Windsor on September 5, 2017. (Photo by Ricardo Veneza)
Mackie adds even if you've never been flooded, it's important to be prepare for the worst.
"We encourage people to have a 72 hour kit or three days worth of supplies incase of an emergency," says Mackie. "So, things like bottled water, non-perishable food, any important contact information for friends and family and a first aid kit."
Mackie says in addition to preparing a flood kit filled with essentials, there's a number of other things you can do as well.
"Ensure that your downspouts flow away from your house and not towards your foundation," says Mackie. "You can make sure that your sump pump has a back up battery. Install a backwater valve or inquire about installing a backwater valve and always check your insurance policy — as I know a lot of people are doing now — to find out what kind of coverage there is."
For a full list of health unit recommendations, click here.