City crews have filled sandbags to help residents prepare for storm season.
Sandbags for residents living in the Alouette River floodplain can be picked up at these locations:
• Maple Ridge Park (23200 124 Ave.)
• Horseman’s Park (12790 224 St)
• City operations centre (23925 Dewdney Trunk Rd)
The city asks residents to take only what you need, so your neighbours can also prepare and stay protected. Stock will be replenished as needed.
Among the city’s new initiatives this year are two high-capacity sandbagging machines that allow crews to quickly fill and stock sandbags for distribution in flood-prone areas ahead of severe weather.
The city has also deployed a new Hydrovac truck to clear debris from drainage systems.
“These upgrades make our systems stronger and more responsive,” said Kirk McLeod, manager of sewers, draining and fleet. “Our crews have been working hard to strengthen infrastructure, improve drainage, and ensure our systems are ready to handle heavy rainfall and changing weather.”
City hall is mailing a new Be Flood Ready guide to residents in flood-prone areas in early November to homes in North and South Alouette floodplain. The guide includes the city’s flood response plan and map, step-by-step instructions for what to do before, during and after a flood, and tips on creating an emergency plan. Residents are encouraged to download the Alert Maple Ridge app to receive emergency notifications.
What residents can do to stay safe
• Clear leaves and debris from gutters and catch basins near your home to keep water moving.
• Avoid walking, cycling, or driving through flooded areas.
• Stay away from rivers, creeks during and after stormy conditions as banks may be unstable .
• Keep children and pets safe around fast-moving waters.
• Check on neighbours who may need assistance.
• Plan to stay with friends or family outside known floodplains in case of evacuation.
• Report downed trees, road debris, or blocked storm drains on City property at MapleRidge.ca/Report or call 604-463-9581 (24 hours).
• Stay at least 10 metres from any downed power lines and call BC Hydro at 1-800-BCHYDRO.
• Pre-Register for Provincial Emergency Support Services at https://era-evacuees.embc.gov.bc.ca/registration-method
Sign up for free emergency ready workshop
Residents are invited to attend free Be Emergency Ready workshops at the Albion Community Centre (24165 104 Ave.) and the Maple Ridge Library (22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd.) to learn about flood preparedness, emergency kits, and creating a family emergency plan. Sign up at MapleRidge.ca/EP.
“Preparedness is a shared responsibility,” said Edd Bennett, the city’s Emergency Program Manager. “By taking critical steps, like clearing drains, reviewing a household plan, or attending a Be Emergency Ready workshop, residents can significantly reduce their risk and help keep our community safe.”