Oak Bay Fire Department

1703 Monterey Avenue, Oak Bay B.C. V8R 5V6 (250) 592-9121  
Email:  obfire@oakbay.ca       Fax:  (250) 598-2749

News Release

Date: January 5, 2015                                                     OBFD file # 2015-01

For Immediate Release:

Weekly Media Release for Monday, December 29, 2014 to Sunday, January 4, 2015. 
Over the past week, Oak Bay Fire Department members responded to 28 calls for assistance.
These calls for assistance include:

18 – Medical First Responder Requests
2 – Commercial / Residential Alarm Activations
2 – Public Assistance
2 – Motor Vehicle Incident
1 – Burning Complaint
2 – Electrical / Wires down
1 – Spill / leak Hazmat

On the west coast heavy rain is common, particularly in the fall.  Here are some tips to prevent heavy rains from causing flooding in or around your home.

1. Clear your foundation drains.Most homes have perimeter drains installed slightly below the house foundation.  They can become blocked with debris, dirt and roots.  Have them inspected.
2. Clear Gutters & Catch Basins.Keep clear of leaves, garbage and debris.
3. Clear Ditches & Culverts.It is common for municipal staff to remove milk jugs, soccer balls, and other items from blocked driveway culverts.
4. Roof Drains & Splash Pads.If your down pipes are connected to a hole near the foundation, your down pipes are likely directed to your perimeter drains.  This can cause excessive flow to your foundation drains and result in flooding your house.  To prevent this, direct your home’s down pipes onto slash pads.  This allows rainfall from your roof to soak into your lawn and garden.
5. Clear Drains you may have on your own property to help drain water away from your house.
6. Sump Pumps can be purchased at local hardware stores and are a tremendous device to have around the house when in need.  Plan Ahead!