Southern California fire departments and community centers are giving away free sand and sandbags on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday ahead of the imminent heavy march shower.
Residents must live in the community or city where they are requesting punching bags. Proof of residency is required.
Find free punching bags nearby and find nearby locations in your local city using the punching bag dashboard at https://t.co/v5fftwz1oe. For more tips and resources on storm preparation, visit https://t.co/y3ov90haim. pic.twitter.com/rqjj31phtr
– LA County Public Works (@lacopublicworks) March 11, 2025
Los Angeles County
The punching bag station is located on the Los Angeles County Public Works website.
The website is static. This means that these locations provide generally listed services, but are not guaranteed. It is recommended that you call in advance to make sure your local station has equipment available.
The punching bag can also be picked up to a limit of 25 per year from all your local Los Angeles Fire Stations. It is recommended to call in advance.
Orange County
The Sand and Sand Bag Station is located on the Orange County Fire Department website.
Punch bags may also be available to residents of urban public works sectors across Orange County. Residents must call individual cities to check availability.
Riverside County
Free punching bags can be found in a limited number at all fire stations across Riverside County. Riverside County recommends checking online or calling additional locations to the local city government.
How to properly use a punching bag
The punching bag is perfect for redirecting the flow of water rather than stopping completely.
A properly filled punching bag must be stacked and staggered, as it doesn’t exceed more than two-thirds, according to the California Department of Emergency Services. If water passes through the bag or leaks up, it may be time to evacuate the area.
To increase effectiveness, water can be poured into a burlap bag punching bag.
The punching bag itself does not act as a seal against water and will deteriorate after a few months. If the bag you have is aged, we recommend a new bag, the office says.
