As monsoon season approaches, Pinal County is providing residents with access to sand and bags at all county Maintenance Yards to help protect properties from potential flooding. However, county staff will not be on-site to assist with filling sandbags. This guide outlines how to properly fill and stack sandbags to effectively safeguard your property.
Residents are reminded to bring their own shovels and be prepared to load the bags themselves. Each household is limited to 25 sandbags. Ray Garcia from Pinal County Public Works offers detailed instructions and tips for this essential process.
Preparation and Equipment:
- Necessary Supplies: Bring a shovel, gloves, sturdy shoes, and extra help if needed to lift and load sandbags.
- Sandbagging Locations: The county has eight sandbagging stations, each marked with signs and equipped with toolboxes containing sandbags.
Filling Sandbags:
- Using the Sandbagging Machine: Most sites have a machine with four chutes operated by foot pedals. Position the bag under a chute, step on the pedal to fill it halfway, and tie the bag loosely.
- Manual Filling: If the machine is unavailable, fill bags halfway using a shovel, ensuring enough room for the sand to move and lay flat.
Stacking Sandbags:
- Strategic Placement: Place bags around doors, garages, and other vulnerable areas to divert water.
- Stacking Technique: Lay bags in a block pattern, offsetting each layer to cover gaps and ensure stability. Flatten the sand in each bag to create an effective barrier.
Usage Tips:
- Untie for Efficiency: Once at the desired location, untie the bags to allow the sand to spread and form a solid barrier.
- Doorway Protection: Stack sandbags three rows high around doors, tucking flaps underneath to create a levee while ensuring emergency exit routes remain accessible.
Residents can visit any Pinal County Maintenance Yard for sand and bags. For additional assistance, contact Pinal County Public Works or visit the county website. This proactive approach aims to equip residents with the tools and knowledge to protect their homes during the monsoon season.
