The town of Tecumseh has taken the first steps toward developing an action plan in the event of major flooding.
With record high water levels, town officials have created a working group with key personnel to come up with a plan and protocol for evacuation orders, accessing certain neighbourhoods and to decide who would do what and what resources are available.
The group, consisting of officials from the OPP, Tecumseh Fire, town hall, the Essex Region Conservation Authority, and utilities met for the first time last week.
Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara says this is no longer a case of 'if', but 'when', for the town.
The town has been offering sand and sandbags for homeowners.
Officials are also working on the possibility that flooding would occur on Riverside Dr.
Town Chief Administrative Officer Marg Evans says it all depends on mother nature with the increased water levels coupled with north or northeast winds.
"It is difficult to say, with certainty, where it would reach to. However, there is a probability that it could reach Riverside Dr," she says.
If that happens, it could have crippling consequences.
"There's homes, there is infrastructure, we have lots of large storm water pumps and sanitary facilities, so there is certainly concern and measures being taken to protect the town's infrastructure."
Hence, the reason for the town to be prepared.
Evans says the intent is to develop a very 'boots on the ground' action plan in case there is lake flooding.
Officials warn lake levels have not peaked yet. They are expected to peak in August.
Following last week's meeting, Evans says there will be regular check-ins with the group to ensure everyone is still on the same page.
The town also has a flood subsidy program for installing a backwater valve and/or disconnecting downspouts and installing a sump pump.