Nevada County, California — Starting Nov. 1, self-serve sand is available to Nevada

County residents at no cost to help prepare your home and property for flooding. Bring your own shovel and sandbags to one of five locations in Nevada County:

  • Nevada County Warehouse: Corner of Highway 49 and East Broad Street, Nevada City, CA 95959
  • Penn Valley Fire Protection District: 10513 Spenceville Road, Penn Valley, CA 95946
  • North San Juan Community Hall: 10057 Reservoir Street, North San Juan, CA 95960
  • Higgins Fire Department: 10106 Combie Road, Auburn, CA 95602
  • Old Corporation Yard: 10720 Riverview Drive, Truckee, CA 96161

Sandbags are available for purchase online and at local hardware stores and other businesses. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead for holiday closures or reduced business hours. More information is available at www.ReadyNevadaCounty.org/Sand.

“No matter what kind of winter we have, preparation is critical. Stock up on essential supplies, plan ahead for potential power outages, and take time to check on your neighbors,” said Alex Keeble-Toll, director of the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services.

Stay informed

Pay attention to weather forecasts and sign up for Nevada County Alerts at ReadyNevadaCounty.org/EmergencyAlerts. Alerts may be sent out for significant storm conditions when necessary. Conditions can change quickly during major storms, so stay informed and follow instructions from local emergency officials.

Keep important contacts handy

Before a storm, make sure you have contact information available for your emergency tree service, propane provider, snowplow service, telecommunications provider, firewood supplier and insurance company. Check in with neighbors and members of your Firewise Community to identify potential needs or vulnerabilities, particularly in areas that could become isolated by flooded roads or downed trees.

Prepare your property

  • Clear leaves and debris from gutters and remove dead or hazardous branches that could fall on your home.
  • Secure patio furniture, umbrellas, decorations and other outdoor items that could blow away or cause damage during high winds.

Prepare for power outages

  • Have your chimney or stovepipe cleaned and your woodstove serviced before using it.
  • Practice generator safety. Always operate generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents. Learn more at ReadyNevadaCounty.org/GeneratorSafety.
  • Pack a Stay Bag with shelf-stable food, water, warm clothing, medications and other essential supplies.
  • Charge phones and backup batteries before a storm and keep flashlights readily available.

Prepare for flooding

  • Check driveway culverts and culverts along private roads to ensure they are free of debris.
  • If you have a creek or seasonal waterway, consider if flooding could be an issue.
  • To prepare for flooding, Nevada County provides self-serve sand at no cost. For more information visit ReadyNevadaCounty.org/Sand.

Drive safely during heavy rain

  • Check your windshield wipers and tires before winter storms arrive.
  • Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, including a flashlight, water, gloves, a warm jacket and snacks.
  • Allow extra travel time and watch for flooding, mudslides, downed trees and other roadway hazards.

Report flooding, mudslides or downed trees on county-maintained roadways to Nevada County Public Works at public.works@nevadacountyca.gov or 530-265-1411. Crews are on call after hours to respond to urgent issues.

Never drive through floodwater

Water on flooded roads can be deeper and faster moving than it appears, and roadways may be damaged or washed out beneath the surface. Never attempt to drive through floodwater. Turn around and find another route.

Stay away from downed power lines

Never touch or walk near a downed power line. Always assume it is energized and extremely dangerous.

Report downed power lines by calling 911 and PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.

Take the time now to ensure you and your family are prepared for winter weather. Sign up for Nevada County Alerts, stock up on essential supplies and make a plan for your household before severe weather strikes. For more information, visit ReadyNevadaCounty.org/WinterPreparedness.

About the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services (OES)

OES works under the Emergency Preparedness Board Objective, leading the community in all hazards planning, preparedness, response, and recovery with a focus on wildfire. OES focuses on improving county-wide evacuation routes and safety, continuing to strengthen early alert and critical communication systems, and working with residents and community partners in emergency preparedness, defensible space, home hardening, green waste disposal, and fire-safe land stewardship. We are all in this together. Learn more about OES at: ReadyNevadaCounty.org.