Springtime is almost here and that means we may experience flooding in some regions. We wanted to share this story from a family in British Columbia who experienced a devastating flood first hand and how they recovered.
When the creek overflowed its bank it turned Sigrid’s yard into a torrent and the family’s goats who lived in the barn had to be set free.If it wasn’t for Sigrid Vanhaesebrouck’s father returning home later than usual that night, things might have turned out much worse. It was around midnight last April when he came home to see her entire driveway under water. The banks of a creek had burst and water was starting to pour into their house.
The water kept on pouring until two out of three floors were submerged. Finally Sigrid, her husband and their six children had to evacuate, leaving almost everything behind. Outside all they could do was watch helplessly as the water continued to flow through the night.
When all was said and done two floors were submerged; the family only had time to grab a couple things and get out of the flooded house.Once the water stopped, Red Cross volunteers arrived with buckets and mops. They asked how they could help, even offering to help take care of the children. It really made a difference to the family, especially the parents, knowing that there were people out there who cared and were willing to help.
Red Cross also provided Sigrid and her family with the basics to help them get back on their feet and keep their goat dairy business afloat. This included clothing, mattresses, two freezers, and vouchers for other necessities from the local Walmart in Kelowna.
Once the water receded the clean up could begin but much of the family’s belonging had to be thrown out.Almost a year later, things are almost back to normal for Sigrid, who acknowledges, “I couldn’t have rebuilt without the help of the Canadian Red Cross.”
While the affects of a flood can be devastating the best thing we can do is prepare. The Canadian Red Cross can provide you with the tools to make your emergency preparedness plan.