Flooding can happen any time. It pays to be prepared, and follow some basic steps to protect yourself and your property.

Elevate or carry items from the basement or ground floor to the upper floors.

Clear your eavestroughs and position spouts to direct water away from your home.

Store chemicals, solvents and gas cans away from areas that might flood to avoid contaminating flood water.

If you have a submersible pump, make sure it works, and that the power source can't be submerged.

If you're using equipment with a fuel-powered engine to drain water from the building, make sure it's located so as not to release carbon monoxide into the building.

Have your vehicle filled with gas and ready to go. Have a supply of fuel for generators and pumps.

Be sure to have a working carbon monoxide detector. Ensure that it's properly positioned in case water levels rise.

Label shut-off valves to make it easier to turn off gas, water and power in the event that you must leave your home. When turning off power, ensure you're standing on a dry surface and use a wooden stick to flip the switch.

If you have natural gas appliances and must evacuate, contact your supplier immediately.

From the outside, use boards and sand bags to help keep water away from doors and windows.