Make the most of Sarasota County's 10 free sandbags
SARASOTA (FOX 13) - The men bagging sandbags in Sarasota County have storm prep down to a science.
First, they scoop the sand, then someone else helps bag it, put a tie on it, and slams it into the pile.
The assembly line was created by Sarasota County's EOC to keep residents high and dry as Subtropical Storm Alberto hammers Florida's west coast with rain Memorial Day weekend.
Ed McCrane with the EOC of Sarasota County says preparation is key.
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“It’s a reminder that we live in an area that gets hit by hurricanes and rain is a big factor when it comes to tropical systems, so you need to be prepared,” he said.
Preparation goes beyond just picking up the sandbags. It’s how you set them up at home that makes all the difference.
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“It’s important to use them effectively,” McCrane said. “It’s a good idea to use some Visqueen plastic along with them. To set them up in areas to divert water away from entryways, but again, not to divert it to your neighbor’s. You need to make sure you’re doing it properly.”
John Wacha is giving sandbags a try. Last year, he says he made the mistake of caulking his door instead of using the bags.
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“I had a hell of a time getting the caulking off,” Wacha said. “I had to repair the door, repaint the door. I figured sandbags were easier, see if that helps.”
Picking up sandbags from the county may not be the ideal way to spend a holiday weekend, but he’d rather be safe than sorry.
“Well, I don’t want my room flooded,” Wacha laughed.
Sarasota County residents are allowed ten sandbags per vehicle. Pasco, Hillsborough, and Hernando counties are offering them, as well.
Sandbag locations: