Big Bear, CA, February 22nd, 2016 – Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. In fact, flooding causes more than $2 billion in property damage every year. The effects of El Nin?o could continue well into March, and Big Bear Fire Department encourages all Valley residents and businesses to plan ahead. Agencies within Big Bear Valley have stocked up with sand and sandbags to help the Valley’s residents protect their homes and businesses in the event that flooding occurs.
Properly placed sandbags should redirect water, mud and debris reducing the risk of property damage. Local authorities suggest getting sandbags early and make them part of your emergency supplies so they will be available if you need them. For 10 lineal feet with one foot of height, you will need 60 to 80 bags, and 1 to 1.3 cubic yards of sand. Sandbags should be filled half-full and placed lengthwise and parallel to the direction of the water flow, with the top folded down. Place sandbags in staggered layers, limited to three rows high. The purpose of the sandbags is to direct the flow of water, not dam it.
Many home improvement and hardware stores sell sand and sandbags. However, if unexpected flooding occurs, residents and businesses of Big Bear Valley can obtain a limited amount of sand and sandbags free of charge at the following locations:
- Big Bear Fire Station 282, 301 W. Big Bear Blvd. for Big Bear City residents and businesses
- Public Works Yard, 42040 Garstin Dr. for City of Big Bear Lake residents and businesses
- San Bernardino County Fire Station 96, 39188 Rim of the World Dr. in Fawnskin
It takes time to construct a wall of sandbags. Plan ahead! It is much easier to place sandbags before you are dealing with heavy runoff. For additional information on this or other life safety topics, please contact the Big Bear Fire Department at bigbearfire.org or (909) 866-7566.
