The word February comes from the Latin word Februarius which, loosley translated, means to purify. The ancient Romans believed February was a month to reestablish the empire’s goals of righteous living, which translated to pillaging, conquering, and partying, along with daily baths. Here on the Concord River, February is a time to plan for the months to come, specifically the months that bring the Spring floods, which occur between March and May (June, July and August too, if Mother Nature gets it into her head to be a b_ tch).

Photo of duck on my street during the March, 2010 flood. (Globe Staff / Yoon S. Byun)

When the street becomes unpassable for humans, the Billerica Fire Department opens access to the higher elevated Old Middlesex Turnpike. Residents can park their cars on the hill and come and go at their leisure. However, the only way to access the access road is by boat or fashionable waders. Luckily, I have both.

What got me thinking about the Spring floods was an e-mail from my insurance agent. Seems the basement flooded in 2010 and the seller failed to disclose the information. I also found out, in Massachusetts, the Seller’s Disclosure isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on. Good to know. Anyway, my basement, which wasn’t my basement at the time, took in four feet of water.

My basement in March of 2010.

A sump pump the size of Mt. Saint Helens wouldn’t have kept out the water. When my river decides to flood, she does so with the fury of the Nile. So, I’ll use February to establish my defense. A trip to Lowe’s is in my future, where I’ll purchase an impact drill, wood for shelving, and large hooks, along with other assorted “flood” items. I think chocolate qualifies.

My house, in March of 2010. I wonder if the mailman uses a boat?

On the bright side, when the street is flooded, my neighbors hold a massive party. Everyone rows from house to house for food, drink, and cheer. I have to admit, a flood does seem like a good time for a celebration. The goddess Coventina would be pleased.

Blessed be :}