Storm season preparedness

November 26, 2021

News update

Storm season preparedness

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich is proactively preparing for winter storms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding and reminds residents to be aware of weather-related issues that could arise.

Whether you work, play or live in Saanich, individuals are encouraged to embrace personal preparedness. Take action to prepare for adverse weather conditions. Knowing what to do in advance will help keep you focused and safe.

Road Safety

When it is necessary to drive during heavy rainfall or adverse weather conditions, please observe the following:

  • Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition
  • Slow down
  • Double your usual following distance
  • Turn on your headlights and taillights
  • Drive carefully and never attempt to drive through flooded areas
  • Before heading out, check for the latest on road conditions online: Drivebc.ca

Watch for trees and branches during windstorms

Saanich has a lot of trees, and sometimes they shed some branches. Look for downed power lines and stay back at least 10 metres (33 feet). Trees or branches on hydro lines should be reported to BC Hydro at 1-800-224-9376.

For tree-related issues in our municipal parks, boulevards or other public lands, please contact Saanich Parks at 250-475-5522 or parks@saanich.ca. The same number applies after hours.

Please take a moment to clear leaves and debris from storm drains in front of your home or business to help prevent flooding and out of bike lanes and off of sidewalks as they can be slippery.

Power outages

During significant weather events, power can be off for prolonged periods of time. Think ahead by ensuring you have a flashlight, blankets and a fully-charged cell phone on-hand in the event of a power outage. Never use a camp stove, barbecue, or propane or kerosene heater indoors. Saanich’s Emergency Program has tips on what to include in your emergency kit.

Please consider checking in with neighbours who may need assistance in the event of a power outage.

For more information on preparing your home and business, to report an outage and for outage maps and restoration times, contact BC Hydro at 1-800-224-9376 or visit the BC Hydro website.

Prevent and report flooding

Saanich crews are taking steps to prevent flooding by inspecting critical drainage infrastructure. In the event of significant flooding on streets, call 250-475-5599 Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The same number applies after hours.

Sandbags are available to Saanich residents and businesses at our Operations Centre at 1040 McKenzie Avenue to assist with diverting overland rainwater flow during flooding events. Residents are also encouraged to avoid fast-moving water in a storm situation.

Protect your property from flooding by:

  • Removing leaves and other debris that prevent proper drainage;
  • Sealing cracks or openings in walls, floors, windows and foundations and all window wells;
  • Checking for moisture along the walls and floor;
  • Ensuring that your plumbing and drainage systems are in good working condition;
  • Clearings eavestroughs, downspouts and catch basins of leaves and other debris that may keeping water from draining;
  • Keeping your drain system clean and in good repair; and
  • Making sure that no garbage, leaves, ice or other debris blocks storm sewer or catch basin grates on or near your property.

Information on homeowner responsibilities can be found at saanich.ca/flood.

Need more information?

For updates and information, follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Residents can report issues on Saanich’s website.

Join us on December 9 for a free 60-minute virtual presentation to learn how to prepare yourself and your family to face any type of disaster. Residents can register for the Virtual Preparedness Presentation by calling 250-475-7140 or emailing sep@saanich.ca.

Helpful Saanich links:

Learn More:

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Media Contact:
Erika Schade
Communications Manager
erika.schade@saanich.ca
250-812-0852