Emergency Preparedness Week
Emergency Preparedness Week is observed across Canada during the first full week of May. This year’s theme – “Be Prepared, Know Your Risks” – is an important reminder, especially when it comes to flooding.
April marked the 89th anniversary of the 1937 Thames River flood, when 150 mm (6 inches) of rain fell over five days. Communities in the Upper Thames River watershed were devastated when floodwaters rose, causing five deaths and property damage that reached $3 million (1937 dollars). The 1937 event remains the highest recorded flood on the Thames River and is considered equivalent to a 1:250-year flood, meaning there is a 0.4% chance of a flood that size occurring in any year.
To help residents stay informed and prepared, the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) has created a “Be prepared for flooding” factsheet that is available for download. This factsheet highlights important information on how and why floods occur; understanding your risk; making a flood plan; and UTRCA’s role in flood forecasting and warning.
Here are a few key tips to keep in mind when a flood is forecasted or occurring:
- Make a family emergency plan and be prepared with a 72-hour emergency kit.
- Find out which media outlets will post flood information.
- Follow emergency instructions and evacuate if necessary.
- Do not walk or drive through fast-moving water.
- After a flood, only return home once you have been advised that it is safe.
On May 9, the UTRCA participated in the City of London’s Emergency Preparedness Day at Fanshawe College. During this free, interactive, family-friendly event, attendees learned from community organizations and first responders on how to stay safe. As always, the UTRCA’s floodplain model, which demonstrates the effects of flooding and how the UTRCA helps protect people and property, was a huge hit!
Bethany Reid-Smith and Russell Roth – Community Partnership Interns