Unfilled bags and sand are available for free from a number of locations around the Regional District of Central Kootenay. Regional Fire Chief Andrew Bellerby is urging people to be prepared for flooding with the recent warm weather. He says it’s a smart, proactive move for anyone who lives near a creek, river or lake.

Last week FortisBC put out an advisory that Kootenay Lake was expected to exceed 1752 feet sometime this month. The last time levels were that high was 2012. FortisBC has been operating the Kootenay River system at the maximum discharge since the middle of March

The RDCK highlights the sandbags are intended to protect homes and not the shoreline. Also, there is a limited supply, so you’re asked to take only what you need.

A few of the locations providing sandbags are the Balfour, Crescent Valley, North Shore, Tarrys and Slocan Fire Halls

For a full list of locations visit the RDCK’s website.