What temporary flood protection can do
Temporary protection is most useful when it is planned and installed before water rises. Depending on the property, the work may include sandbag placement, a removable door or garage barrier, a temporary berm, compatible plastic sheeting, pump-assisted collection, or hose routing to an approved destination.
FEMA describes temporary barriers as measures that may reduce damage while permanent options are evaluated, but says they are effective only when properly placed. Site slope, surface condition, door shape, wall joints, drainage capacity, expected water direction, and available labor all affect the result. Water can move around, under, over, or through a barrier.
AWC first reviews the reported flow path, low openings, access, material availability, setup time, and safe egress. A proposed layout must not trap occupants, obstruct required access, block necessary drainage, or intentionally redirect water onto a neighboring property.
Current City sandbag resources
The City of San Diego's current storm-preparedness page says empty sandbags are available at selected recreation centers, limited to 10 bags per City household or business, and that sand is not provided. Locations, hours, supply, eligibility, and limits can change.
Check the live City of San Diego Storm Preparedness page before traveling. Do not copy an old distribution list into a permanent plan or assume bags remain in stock. The City also advises residents to report blocked public storm drains through Get It Done and to keep trash and debris from obstructing curb flow.
City-provided empty bags do not include delivery, filling, installation, monitoring, removal, or disposal. Any AWC work depends on current crew and material availability, safe access, the property conditions, and an approved scope.
Placement, monitoring, and limits
- Identify the likely water direction and the opening or area to protect.
- Preserve a safe exit and avoid electrical equipment, gas equipment, and public infrastructure.
- Prepare the surface and place the selected barrier according to its intended use.
- Plan for seepage and a lawful place for collected water; a barrier may need pump support.
- Monitor only from a safe location and leave if water rises, moves quickly, or conditions deteriorate.
Barriers are not appropriate for rescue conditions, fast-moving water, unsafe structures, energized areas, sewage, or hazardous materials. Plastic sheeting by itself is not a universal flood barrier. Pumping behind a barrier also requires a safe power arrangement and a lawful discharge or disposal plan.
Call 619-912-0486 to discuss conditions and availability. Text existing photos and the property address to 619-327-9513. Do not enter water or climb onto a roof to create new photos.