School and Daycare Flood Preparedness in Alberta
Schools and daycares move children first. Sandbags are a facilities tool staged by staff—not a job for students during lightning or rising water.
Separate student flow from water response
Identify the lowest exterior doors, portable ramps, and playground gates that pond. Keep bag storage in a locked facilities area away from play routes. Write a plan that says who monitors the forecast, who places bags, and who leads indoor sheltering. Children and visitors never carry 18 kg bags.
Pre-stage before the outdoor season peaks
Measure priority openings in dry weather. Order a reserve above guesswork—Edmonton Sandbags pre-filled bags are $5.99 each, minimum 10. Use stacking guidance in a staff drill once per year. Delivery to a loading zone often beats sending custodians across town when a warning hits; call 1-888-552-7263 or request a quote. Warehouse pickup: 4315 118 Ave NW, 24/7.
- Priority doors labeled on a one-page map
- Poly sheeting with the reserve
- Two trained adults as the placement team
- Indoor program continues while exterior work finishes early
Storm-day sequence
Complete outdoor placement before thunder. Bring everyone inside per your lightning and emergency procedures—see principles in thunderstorm flood protection. Do not reopen for “one more bag.” After runoff slows, facilities remove bags safely and document for the board using ideas from the photo checklist.
Communicate with families
A short notice—“we staged temporary barriers at door X; pickup remains on the usual path”—reduces surprise. Focus on continuity of care, not drama. Restock before the next convective week.
FAQ
Should children help place sandbags?
No. Trained adults place bags; students follow indoor safety procedures.
When should a school order bags?
Before storm season, after measuring priority doors—not during an active lightning event.
Is delivery available for schools?
Yes. Confirm quantity, loading zone, and contact through Edmonton Sandbags at 1-888-552-7263 or the quote form.
