Residents Asked to Clear Storm Sewer Openings, and Stay Away from Streams and Rivers
MARKHAM, ON – February 20, 2014~ Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has issued a flood outlook due to Environment Canada’s forecast of a weather system that may bring 20 to 50 millimetres of rainfall with possible thunderstorms to Markham and the Greater Toronto Area. Combined with warmer temperatures, which will melt some of the ice and snow accumulation on the ground, the result may be higher than normal water levels and flows. The possibility exists for flooding on roadways and in low-lying areas of our community. This flood outlook is in effect from the evening of Thursday, February 21 through Sunday, February 23, 2014.
The combination of slippery and unstable banks, unsafe ice and extremely cold water temperatures will create very hazardous conditions close to any river, stream or other bodies of water. In addition, water-covered roadways and walkways, along with high winds, may cause unsafe travel conditions for motorists and pedestrians.
The City is in the process of clearing storm grates at main intersections, ditches and inlets in preparation for the expected rainfall. Flood prone areas of the community have been identified and are being monitored on an ongoing basis.
Markham urges residents to stay away from rivers and streams, and exercise extreme caution when walking outdoors or around any body of water. Please alert children under your care of these dangers and supervise their activities.
Residents are asked to help by clearing the storm grates on the streets within their neighbourhoods.
For More Information:
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti: fscarpitti@markham.ca or 905-475-4872
Media inquiries / interview requests: Dennis Flaherty, Director, Corporate Communications & Community Engagement, 905-415-7520, media@markham.ca
Information Sheet: Floods: Before, During and After
Floods are the most frequent natural hazard in Canada and the most costly in terms of property damage. The City Of Markham has experienced numerous significant rainfall events that left parts of the City temporarily flooded.
PREPARING FOR A FLOOD
To reduce the likelihood of flood damage:
- Put weather protection sealant around basement windows and the base of ground-level doors.
- Install the drainage downspouts a sufficient distance from your residence.
- Consider installing a sump pump and zero reverse flow valves in basement floor drains
- Do not store important documents in the basement.
If a flood is forecast:
- Clear catch basins in your neighbourhood of debris and anything that would block flow.
- Turn off basement furnaces and the outside gas valve.
- Take special precautions to safeguard electrical, natural gas or propane heating equipment.
If flooding is imminent:
- Move furniture, electrical appliances and other belongings to floor above ground level.
- Remove toxic substances such as pesticides and insecticides from the flood area.
- Disconnect eavestroughs if they are connected to the house sewer.
- Do NOT attempt to shut off electricity if any water is present.
DURING A FLOOD
- Be sure to listen to the radio – Markham’s local radio station is 105.9FM – to find out what areas are affected, which roads are safe, where to go and what to do if the local emergency team asks you to leave your home.
- Never cross a flooded area:
- If you are on foot, fast water could sweep you away.
- If you are in a car, do not drive through flood water or underpasses.
- Avoid crossing bridges if the water is high and flowing quickly.
AFTER A FLOOD
Re-entering your home:
- Do not return home until authorities have advised that it is safe to do so.
- If the main power switch was not turned off prior to flooding do not re-enter your home until a qualified technician has determined it is safe to do so.
- Appliances that may have been flooded pose a risk of shock or fire when turned on. Have them inspect by a qualified electrician.
- The main electrical panel must be cleaned, dried, and tested by a qualified electrician to ensure it is safe.
Re-entering your home (continued):
- If a natural gas odour is present:
- Don’t touch any electrical fixtures, telephones or switches – any spark may ignite the gas line
- Don’t light matches or smoke cigarettes
- Open all windows to ventilate the house
- Leave the house immediately
- Contact the gas company and the fire department from a safe place
- If you are exposed to biological hazards (raw sewage); you may become ill by breathing or swallowing the contaminants. Some contaminants like bacteria or viruses may be left indoors by floodwater, while fungi or mould may grow indoors after water has left.
Ensure building safety:
- Make sure the building is structurally safe.
- Look for buckled walls or floors.
- Watch for holes in the floor, broken glass and other potentially dangerous debris.
Water:
- Flood water can be heavily contaminated with sewage and other pollutants.
- If through colour, odour or taste you suspect that your drinking water has been contaminated, don’t drink it.
- If you accidentally swallow flood water or sediment that is contaminated, you might develop gastrointestinal (digestive tract) illness. Contact your physician if this occurs.
- Household items that have been flood-damaged will have to be discarded according to local regulations.
To reduce your risk of illness:
- Do not drink the water
- Discard food that has come in contact with flood waters
- Wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, before eating or preparing food, or after participating in flood clean-up activities