When properly filled and stacked, sandbags form a tight barrier that absorbs and diverts water away from the area you want to protect. The weight and density of the sand within the bags help to keep them in place, even under strong water pressure.

Sandbags are versatile, easy to store, and can be deployed rapidly in an emergency. Unlike some other methods, sandbags do not require specialized equipment or extensive setup, making them accessible for immediate use by anyone.

While sandbags can be reused if they remain intact and dry, their effectiveness may diminish after exposure to floodwaters, UV light, or prolonged use. For optimal protection, it’s recommended to use new or well-maintained sandbags for each flood event.