Now is the time to prepare and assess flood risk and take steps to minimize property damage.

With potential flooding this spring, it is important to start the planning and preparation process now. People should assess their risk, decide whether to purchase a flood insurance policy and consider the supplies you will potentially need this year like sand and sand bags and the amount of each that you will need to safeguard your property.

Other steps to take:

• Clear snow from foundations and basement windows.

• Ensure eave troughs are clear of snow, ice or other debris. Use extenders on downspouts to direct water away from your home.

• Move belongings to an upper floor, particularly important papers, valuables, photos and other irreplaceable items.  Consider removing carpeting from basements.

• Put all hazardous materials in a flood-safe storage area.

• Plug sewer drains to prevent backup.

• Make sure sump pumps are operational.

• Contact your insurance agent to check coverage of sump pump failure and sewer backup.

Another important step to take is to prepare a basic emergency supply kit for every member of your family, as well as household pets. A complete list of what your emergency supply kit should contain can be found at nd.gov.

When a crisis occurs such as local flooding, local public safety officials have three methods to alert the public. Officials will be using all these methods when threats occur, especially the City Watch Notification. This system will be used to notify you if you live in an area that is in danger of flooding and special instructions need to be given out.

The CityWatch Notification System is a system made up of a series of remote computers and telephone lines to relay a recorded message to the public with information and instructions during an emergency or non-emergency event.

The other two methods of communication will be through media press releases delivered to radio, television, newspapers and the Morton County website, and by way of the Emergency Alert System.

If you live in Mandan and have a telephone in your home, you should already a part of this system. If you have a cell phone number or a Voice over Internet Protocol number, such as Vontage, that you wish to have added to the system, go to the Morton County website at co.morton.nd.us and click on “Emergency Notification System.”

For more information, contact Morton County Emergency Management at 667-3307.