Flooding
Heavy rains can cause flash flooding that can damage your home and put you at risk.
Public Works Dispatch Centre
506-853-3333
Homeowners are at the greatest risk of flooding after heavy rains or when the frozen ground cannot absorb a springtime rain. While we can’t control the weather, there are things you can do to minimize the impact of a heavy rainfall.
Precautions
- Seal basement windows and the base of ground-level doors with weather protection sealant.
- Ensure downspouts are directed away from your residence.
- Ensure land around your home is graded away from the foundation.
- Consider installing a sump pump and zero reverse flow valves in basement floor drains.
- Don’t store important items or documents in your basement or on the floor at ground level.
When Heavy Rains/Flooding is Forecasted
- Turn off basement furnaces and the outside gas valve.
- Take precautions to safeguard electrical, natural gas or propane heating equipment.
- Remove anything important from your basement, including electrical items.
- Make sure you have appropriate emergency contact numbers in case you need assistance.
- Remove toxic substances such as pesticides and insecticides from the potential flood area
to prevent pollution. - Plug basement sewer drains and toilet connections with a wooden stopper.
If There is Immediate Danger of Flooding, Call NB Power
The mix of water and electricity in a flooded basement can be deadly.
Before attempting to remove the water or shutting off the electricity, contact NB Power.
For power outage, call NB Power: 1.800.442.4424.
For any other electricity-related problem, call: 1.800.663.6272.
Cleaning Up
The three areas of concern after a flood are: electrical safety, structural issues and health hazards as a result of mould and contaminated water.
Do not attempt to clean up before calling NB Power and before reviewing flood cleanup information.
The sooner you can remove standing water, dry and disinfect the area, the sooner you can prevent bacteria and mould from growing.