SARASOTA COUNTY, Fla. — As Sarasota County continues to deal with the fallout of Hurricane Debby, it's bracing for another weekend of heavy downpours.
In preparation, officials have opened sandbag sites across the area to help protect homes from another round of devastating flooding.
Sarasota County sandbag sites
The following locations will be open from 3-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 22, and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23.
While the site is self-service, bags and shovels will be provided. Residents are limited to 10 bags per vehicle.
- Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota
- South County Fleet Services, 4571 State Road 776/ Englewood Road, South Venice
- Ed Smith Stadium (east lot), 2700 12th Street, Sarasota
Venice sandbag sites
In Venice, a self-service sandbag site will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, at:
Shovels will be provided but residents will either need to bring their own bags or pick up bags starting at 8 a.m. at City Hall or Venice Public Works. Residents are limited to 10 bags per vehicle.
North Port sandbag sites
In Northport, a self-service sandbag site will be open starting at 3 p.m. Thursday. Aug. 22, at:
- George Mullen Activity Center, 1602 Kramer Way, North Port
How to fill and lay sandbags
Sandbags can be heavy. It's recommended to fill them halfway up and tie them closed.
Once you have your sandbags in hand, place one on the ground and place the new bag on the tail (or tied end) of the old bag. Stagger the next layer like bricks. A good rule of thumb is to lay the bags the length of a doorway and add another row on top.
It's important to note sandbags can help protect your home or property from minor flooding. They do not protect from storm surges or anything of greater significance.