The threat of a major rainfall event similar to the 2016 floods has many grabbing sandbags for their homes and businesses. Jacob from Baton Rouge says he’s seen many neighbors helping neighbors in preparation for the arrival of Tropical Storm Barry.
“We have a bunch of people out here who have been out here who have been hot and sweaty all day today and they are still helping others. I juts like seeing the community come together and anyone out there that is still looking to get sandbags and thinks they may not need them, well it’s better to have them and nt need them,” said the lifelong Baton Rouge resident.
Sandbags are being dispersed in flood-prone areas of the state. Nicole from Baton Rouge says she was flooded in 2016, and is grateful for the opportunity to utilize the bags being distributed by the department of public works.
“It’s frightening to think that it could happen the way it did in ’16 again, so this sand and these sandbags are a God send. I think it shows just how open our eyes are to the possibility of flooding in the areas where we’ve never flooded before,” said the woman who has memories of surviving the 216 floods still fresh on her ming.
St. George Fire Department on Airline is one of the locations where the bags and sand are constantly being replenished for distribution. Chief of Training Matt Ard says there are plenty of shovels, so there is no need to bring your own. Ard does have a few safety recommendations though.
“They need to be properly hydrated, be ready to work, because it is not an easy job and it depends on how many bags they need. They probably need to get some gloves and some boots to protect themselves,” said Ard.
