To fill sandbags efficiently, fill them halfway to two-thirds full and tie them at the top. Overfilled bags can make placement difficult and reduce effectiveness. When placing sandbags, lay them in layers, starting from the corners and working towards the middle. Stack the bags in a staggered pattern, similar to laying bricks, and press down firmly to remove air pockets.
District of Sooke Prepares for Rainy Season: 24/7 Self Service Sandbag Station Now Open
As the rainy season begins, the District of Sooke is encouraging everyone to take steps to prepare for heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Working together as a community helps reduce impacts and supports local resilience.
To assist with flood preparedness, the District’s self-serve sandbag station is now open. The station is located in the Ed Macgregor Park parking lot at 6765 West Coast Road and provides a free service for Sooke residents and businesses.
Sand and empty bags are available at the site. Please bring your own shovel and fill only what you need for your property. The station will remain open throughout the rainy season, while supplies last.
“Preparing for the rainy season is something we can all do together,” says Ryland Bennett, Emergency Program Manager. “Clearing a drain, filling a few sandbags, or checking in with a neighbour can make a big difference when heavy rain hits. It’s all part of building a resilient community.”
The self-serve sandbag station is part of the District’s Emergency Management Program, which works year-round to support readiness, response, and recovery across the community.
Tips for Rainy Season Preparedness:
- Check weather forecasts and be alert for heavy rainfall warnings.
- Monitor catch basins near your home or business and help keep them clear of debris so water can flow freely. Use the Catch Basin Locator Map to find those nearest you.
- Keep ditches, drains, and culverts near your property clear of debris.
- Direct runoff away from buildings and foundations.
- Stay informed through local updates and emergency notifications.
Stay connected and receive emergency alerts directly to your phone by signing up for Alertable at sooke.ca/alert.
For more information on emergency preparedness and the District’s Emergency Management Program, visit Emergency Planning and Preparedness | District of Sooke
This program is made possible thanks to collaboration between the District of Sooke and the Provincial Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.
FAQs
What is the best way to fill and place sandbags?
How do I properly dispose of sandbags after use?
Once the concern of flooding has passed, store them for future use or return them to the sandbag station.
Can I use the sand and bags at the station for other purposes?
No, the sand and bags at the station are provided specifically for flood protection. Please refrain from using these resources for any other purposes to ensure they are available for those who need them during weather emergencies.
What other flood prevention measures can I take?
In addition to using sandbags, you can protect your property by clearing gutters, downspouts, and storm drains, elevating furniture or appliances in low-lying areas, and sealing any potential points of water entry, such as basement windows or cracks in walls. Consider consulting a professional if more advanced measures are needed. Learn more here: Get prepared for floods – Province of British Columbia
What if there are no bags available at the station?
District Parks staff will monitor the inventory of sand and bags during routine inspections that occur each week. During weather events, additional supplies will be made available. Please take only enough to meet your needs so that supplies are available for others.
Will this take away from the already limited parking available at Ed Macgregor Park?
The station will be set up to minimize disruption to parking.
Who can I contact if I have feedback about the sandbag station?
The success of this community service depends on everyone’s participation and care. If you notice something that needs attention or have a suggestion to help improve the station, please reach out to Emergency Program Services at 250-642-5422. Working together helps ensure this resource remains effective and accessible for all.
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District of Sooke
2205 Otter Point Road
Sooke, BC V9Z 1J2
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am – 4:30pm
Phone: 250-642-1634
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