When it rains in San Diego County, you'll want to be prepared and your local governments want to help. Just head to one of these county or city sites to grab free sandbags ahead of the storm.

It is important to note that at most locations, you'll need to fill up sandbags yourself -- so bring a shovel -- and proof of residency may be required. The number of bags you can get will vary by location.

For tips on how to properly fill and place your sandbags for the best protection from flooding, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the County Office of Emergency Services have put together some guidance here.

Here's where to find free sandbags across San Diego County:

County of San Diego Sites

From Escondido to Imperial Beach, here is a list of cities offering their residents free sandbags and where you can find them. For those living in unincorporated areas, click here.

City of San Diego Sites

In the city of San Diego, up to 10 empty sandbags are being offered to those with proof of residency. San Diegans can obtain sandbags from 1 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 2 p.m. on weekends at the following locations: 

Council District 1
Standley Recreation Center
3585 Governor Drive, San Diego 92122

Council District 2
Robb Athletic Field
2525 Bacon St., San Diego 92107

Council District 3
Golden Hill Recreation Center
2600 Golf Course Drive, San Diego 92102

Council District 4
Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center
6401 Skyline Drive, San Diego 92114

Council District 5
Scripps Ranch Recreation Center
11454 Blue Cypress Drive, San Diego 92131

Council District 6
North Clairemont Recreation Center
4421 Bannock Ave., San Diego 92117

Council District 7
Allied Gardens Recreation Center
5155 Greenbrier Ave., San Diego 92120

Council District 8
San Ysidro Community Activity Center
179 Diza Road, San Diego 92173

Council District 9
City Heights Recreation Center
4380 Landis St., San Diego 92105

The city is making its own preparations ahead of potential flooding, including adding "no parking" signs in flood-prone areas and cleaning drains and inlets. 

Residents were asked to do the same. Simple steps like sweeping out debris from storm drains and gutters, securing trash bins and not driving on flooding roadways could keep residents safe during flooding emergencies, the city of San Diego said. 

Residents can report events such as flooding or downed trees by using the Get It Done application or by calling 619-527-7500.