Quick Answer
When using an elevated shelter, deal with flooding by regularly inspecting your surroundings for signs of rising water levels, anchoring the shelter securely to prevent it from being swept away, and preparing a makeshift water barrier, such as a tarp or sandbags.
Assessing the Water Level
When using an elevated shelter, it’s essential to regularly inspect your surroundings for signs of rising water levels. Look for changes in the environment, such as increased water flow, rising water marks on trees or other landmarks, or shifts in the sound of the water. Use a measuring tape or a stick to mark the water level at regular intervals, ideally every 6 hours, to track any changes.
Securing the Shelter
To prevent your elevated shelter from being swept away by flooding, make sure to anchor it securely to the ground. Use sturdy ropes or chains, ideally with a breaking strength of at least 1,000 pounds, and anchor them to large trees or immovable objects. Make sure the anchors are at least 3 feet off the ground to prevent them from being washed away.
Preparing a Water Barrier
In the event of rising water levels, prepare a makeshift water barrier to protect your elevated shelter. Use a tarp or a large piece of plastic sheeting, ideally 10 feet by 20 feet, to create a dam or a ramp to divert water away from the shelter. If you have sandbags, use them to reinforce the barrier, placing them in a zigzag pattern to provide maximum stability. Make sure the barrier is at least 2 feet high to prevent water from seeping underneath.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.