Information Bulletin
Issued by: Regional District of Kootenay Boundary
Issued: Tuesday, May 16, 2023 | 4:00 p.m. PT
Website: emergency.rdkb.com
Wondering what to do with all those sandbags?
How to protect yourself and the environment
Recent high water has prompted the placement of thousands of sandbags throughout the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB).
With temperatures continuing to be on the rise, residents are advised to keep their sandbags in place for the time being.
Once the threat of flooding has passed, residents may remove the sandbags but are asked to take precautions as the bags may have been contaminated by floodwaters.
The bags must be disposed of in a landfill. The sand can be used on private property, but it is advised that it not come into contact with humans (i.e. sandbox, playground, etc.).
Tips for Safety Disposing of Sandbags:
- Wear boots and gloves.
- Do not allow the sand to come into contact with humans – do not use in sandboxes, playgrounds, etc.
- Do not dispose of the sand in creeks, rivers, wetlands, parks, etc. Doing so could have negative environmental consequences.
- Wash your hands with soapy water after handling sandbags.
- If an open wound is exposed to sand or floodwater, take these steps:
- Clean the wound with soap and water
- Apply an antibiotic cream/ointment to the wound
- Bandage the area
- See a doctor if necessary.
For more information, please visit https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2017TRAN0190-001239