Take proper measures before the rains come

Malibu has seen the fire- now get ready for the rain.

Although significant rainfall has yet to occur this season, public safety officials say it's still time for residents to prepare their homes for potential flood hazards- whether or not they live in a fire-damaged area.

Property owners shoudl tak responsibility to minimize rain and flood damage.officials say. Owners can protect their property by following these steps:

+Clean home gutters of debris.

+Clear and clean all drains in yards, driveways and pool decks that could clog and cause backups into home.

+Clear and sandbag problem areas if residing in an area previously affected by fire or have experienced flooding on an annual basis.

+Use caution when crossing roads or areas of flowing water. It's difficult to determine the depth of flowing water which may be dangerously deep.

+Do not use storm or runoff channels for recreation. They are deceptively dangerous and lives have been lost.

+Residents should stay aware of surroundings by monitoring advisory updates on television and radio.

+Selected fire stations will have emergency supplies of sand and sandbags available for public use only when heavy rains or flooding is occurring. These resources are not for use in anticipation of rain or flooding problems or based on weather forecasts.

Sandbags are available at Station No. 36 at 855 N. Deerhill Road, Oak Park.

For more information, visit www.fire.countyofventura.org.