Sandbags
Overview
When heavy rains and flooding are a threat, sandbags are a simple and effective tool to help protect your property. Sandbags act as barriers, preventing water from entering homes, businesses, and other important structures.
Where to Obtain Sandbags
In the event of flooding, residents can pick up free sandbags from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at several Ventura County Fire Department locations. Sandbags are available at no charge; however, residents are responsible for filling them and must bring their own bags.
See a complete list of participating stations offering sandbags here.
How to Use Sandbags
- Fill sandbags half-full. Use sand if it is available, but any local soil may be used and if possible, use close-weave burlap bags.
- Remove debris and obstructions from the area where the sandbags will be placed and place the sandbags to redirect water, mud or debris, not dam it
- When placing sandbags, fold the top of the sandbag down and rest the bag on its folded top.
- The half-filled bags should be placed lengthwise and parallel to the direction of the water flow. Stamp on the bags as they are placed to eliminate gaps.
- Do not place sandbags directly against the outer wall of a building. Wet bags can create added pressure on the foundation.
- Sandbags should be placed in staggered layers. Limit the layers to three unless the sandbags are braced or stacked in pyramids.
- It takes time to construct a wall of sandbags. Plan ahead! It is much easier to place sandbags before you are dealing with heavy runoff.