While some eastern Virginia counties distribute sandbags to residents to protect their homes, Prince William County does not, citing their difficulty to handle, stack and dispose of them once the storm passes.
“Sandbags exposed to flood water become contaminated and are difficult to dispose of properly,” Prince William County Department of Fire & Rescue said on their Facebook page.
Rather, Fire & Rescue suggests, prior to the storm, that homeowners use cement to fill cracks in foundations and seal openings around pipes and joints between siding and foundation with caulk.
“Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and in working order. Ensure that gutters and downspouts discharge properly into the storm sewer or some distance away from your property,” they said.
Furthermore, residents are advised to maintain the grade around their houses so that rainwater properly drains.
Support Bristow Beat - Donate Today!