Watsonville seniors can avail themselves of free sandless sandbags at a distribution event Monday.
The bags are lightweight, don’t need to be filled with sand and can help in flood events, city officials said in a news release Thursday.
“We know how difficult it can be for residents, especially our seniors, to prepare their homes when heavy rain is in the forecast,” said Watsonville City Manager Tamara Vides. “While no single tool can prevent flooding, this is one more way we can help our community prepare before the next storm arrives.”
When sandless sandbags are exposed to water, they expand to create a barrier that can help reduce the amount of floodwater entering buildings and are especially beneficial for seniors who have trouble lifting heavier sandbags, according to city officials.
The giveaway event will be on Monday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Joyce McKenzie Park, 500 Joyce Drive in Watsonville.
The sandless sandbags will be available only to senior citizens living in city of Watsonville neighborhoods that have previously experienced flooding and residents must bring identification to verify their home address. Supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, according to city officials.
Regular pre-filled sandbags will also be available at the event for any Watsonville resident.
