May 1, 2026 · 5 min read · Weather Safety
When a flood warning is issued: move to higher ground immediately, do not walk or drive through floodwater, disconnect electrical appliances, move valuables to upper floors, and monitor updates from Environment Canada or NOAA. Do not wait for an evacuation order if water is rising.
A flood watch means conditions are favorable for flooding to occur. You should prepare to move to higher ground. A flood warning means flooding is either imminent or already occurring, requiring immediate action.
Move to higher ground immediately. If you have time, disconnect electrical appliances, turn off utilities at the main switches, and move essential items to upper floors. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
Never. "Turn Around, Don't Drown." It only takes 12 inches of moving water to sweep away a small car, and 24 inches for larger vehicles. Furthermore, the road underneath the water may have washed away completely.
Use sandbags around vulnerable entrances. Clear gutters and drains to allow water to flow freely. Ensure your sump pump is working and has a battery backup. Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if you live in a high-risk flood zone.
Together Safe integrates with Environment Canada and provincial hydrology centers to provide real-time, address-specific flood warnings, including predictive models for rising river levels.
The Red River basin in Manitoba, the Saint John River in New Brunswick, the Fraser River valley in BC, and various regions in Quebec and Ontario have histories of severe seasonal flooding.
It takes only 6 inches of fast-moving water to knock over an adult, and just 12 inches to sweep away a small car. 24 inches can carry away most large vehicles.
A flash flood warning indicates that sudden, violent flooding is imminent or occurring, usually due to heavy rain. You must move to higher ground immediately.
If officials issue an evacuation order, leave immediately. If water is rising rapidly and no order has been issued, do not wait—move to higher ground.
Standard home insurance in Canada usually does not cover overland flooding. You must purchase overland flood insurance as an add-on (endorsement) from your provider.
Manitoba (Red River), Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia experience the highest frequency of severe flooding events in Canada.
Together Safe monitors river levels and severe weather to warn you before flood waters reach your street.
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