Lafayette Consolidated Government is urging residents to prepare for an active hurricane season. Getting sandbags and preparing supplies are two things that can be done now. The following information came out soon after Tropical Storm Cristobal formed in the Southern Gulf of Mexico.

Read more below from Mayor-President Josh Guillory:

SANDBAG LOCATIONS

North District site at 400 N Dugas Road (located off North University Avenue)
South District site at 1017 Fortune Road in Youngsville.
Both sites are open during daylight hours.

Bags and sand are available at no cost to residents; both sites are self-bagging and residents must bring their own shovel and manpower.

BAGS PER HOUSEHOLD

Please limit sandbags to four bags per exterior door.
Maximum of 20 sandbags per household.
Store sandbags away from direct sunlight.
After initial use, store sandbags to use throughout the storm season.

TIPS TO PROTECT PROPERTY IN THE EVENT OF EXTENDED HEAVY RAINFALL

To reduce flood damage, clear debris from ditches, and culverts near your home. Common causes of blockage include trash can lids, buckets, balls, and yard waste (grass, leaves, tree limbs).

Drainage crews regularly maintain ditches, culverts and coulees, and Director of Drainage Brian Smith said sometimes loose items on properties unintentionally end up blocking drainage. “Our crews cover a large area, and we will always respond to requests for blockage removal when called upon, but assistance from residents to reduce flooding in neighborhoods is appreciated.”

While clearing debris can help reduce flooding, it should be expected an unusual amount of heavy rain or flash flooding can overwhelm drains and drainage channels, causing them to reach capacity and temporarily flood roads and adjacent properties.

DANGERS OF DRIVING THROUGH FLOOD WATERS

Six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult.
One foot of rushing water can carry away most cars.
Two feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.

HEED THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SLOGAN: TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN!

Do not drive through or walk through floodwaters; stay off roadways until all water recedes.
Pay attention to barricades. Signs and barricades indicate flooding is ahead. Use an alternate route.