SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - With rain set to douse San Diego County, the county has released a list of locations for residents to get free sandbags.
San Diego County’s Department of Public Works, the San Diego County Fire Authority, and Cal Fire will offer free sand and/or bags at numerous spots around the county. Be sure to check with locations whether they only offer bags or sand as well before going.
In addition to the normal areas of San Diego, areas affected by December's Lilac Fire in the Bonsall area are being offered sandbags, as well as other devices like fiber rolls, gravel bags, and native seeds.
Here's where to get sandbags ahead of the rain:
Rainfall can cause flooding and erosion in areas not properly covered by landscaping, trees, grass, or shrubs. Runoff can then damage homes, drains, and roadways.
Sandbags help direct water and runoff away from properties.
During the Lilac Fire, homeowner Everett Herb was certain his house would be consumed, but wind direction ultimately saved it. Now he's worried about erosion and flooding and is taking full advantage of resources provided by the county.
"Just trying to prepare for the worst and hope for the best, like everybody else," said Herb.
Herb collected about 20 sandbags and several fiber rolls in hopes to protect his home and neighbors in need.
Residents in the Lilac Fire burn area can also call 888-846-0800 to schedule to have a County engineer come look at their property and suggest what areas need protection.
Engineers can also help determine how and where to place sandbags, fiber rolls, and other erosion control devices.
