Flooding Awareness and Preparation

Shoreline and overland flooding is a real and growing threat in Windsor-Essex.

Windsor-Essex is surrounded on three sides by water, making it vulnerable when water levels rise in the Great Lakes and during severe weather events.

We can all take steps to protect our homes and properties against flooding and we should all be ready to respond in the event of a flooding emergency.

Be aware, be prepared.

Ensure you are contacted in the event of a flooding emergency by signing up for your municipality's alerts system. It only takes a few minutes. Be aware, be prepared!

Pick up your sandbags!

Residents in flood-prone areas are eligible to receive sandbags from their local municipalities. Learn more about the program in your local municipality.

Pack an emergency kit!

Have you packed an emergency 72-hour kit? It's easy to do and it is essential to help protect you and your family. You can buy them online or build your own.

Make an emergency plan!

Twenty minutes could save the life of you and your family and protect your property. That's all the time it takes to make an emergency plan. Make yours today!

Electrical safety

Don't go into your basement if water has reached your electrical outlets, baseboard heaters or furnace. Contact your local utility.

Gas safety

If you smell natural gas, exit the building immediately and contact emergency officials or Enbridge Gas from a safe location.

Protect your valuables

Don't put photo albums or important documents in the basement. Review your insurance policy. Catalogue important items.

Flood monitoring

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) is responsible for monitoring water levels and issuing flood watches and warnings. ERCA has a flood forecasting page with regular updates and links to current and historic water level data.

Flood Ready website

The federal government's Flood Ready website has several sections devoted to flood-proofing your home and keeping your family safe in the event of a flooding emergency. It is an excellent resource.

County of Essex
360 Fairview Ave W, Essex ON N8M 1Y6

Telephone: 519-776-6441
TTY: 1-877-624-4832
Fax: 519-776-4455
coeinfo@countyofessex.ca

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