In areas subject to flooding, what must be done to storage containers?

Anchoring storage containers in areas prone to flooding is essential for safety and environmental protection. When containers are not secured, rising floodwaters can cause them to float, shift, or be swept away, potentially leading to spills, leaks, or other hazardous incidents. By anchoring these containers, their stability is ensured, keeping them in place during a flood event. This prevents potential contamination of surrounding environments and the associated risks of exposing hazardous materials.

The other options do not adequately address the safety and environmental concerns related to flooding. Leaving containers unsecured would pose significant risks, while relocating them above ground may not guarantee their security against floodwaters. Painting them with waterproof paint might provide minimal protection against water damage but does not address the fundamental issue of preventing the containers from floating away. Thus, anchoring is the most effective measure in these circumstances.