Abstract

A system and method for rapid construction of temporary watertight barriers and walls by unskilled labor which comprise stacked tiers of fluid-filled water bag assemblies. Each water bag assembly comprises a rigid outer frame and a rugged, flexible waterproof bag. The outer frame is separable into a top panel having downwardly extending pivotally-attached connection rods and a bottom panel having upwardly extending pivotally-attached connection tubes. When opposed connection rods and tubes are joined and fixed together with quickly applied fasteners, a waterproof bag placed therebetween becomes sandwiched between the top and bottom panels. Two hose connections on each waterproof bag surface provide conveniently accessed fluid introduction and air vent openings for use in draining and filling them. A standard garden hose or water pump may be used to drain or fill the waterproof bags. Reusable panels and waterproof bags may be made from recycled materials and each should be collapsible into a compact configuration for transport and storage. Applications of the present invention can include, but are not limited to, use in the construction of barriers and walls for protection of property against flood waters, temporary shelters, military bunkers, diversion of people and vehicles from temporarily hazardous areas, prevention of soil erosion, and the containment of slow moving hazardous material spills, as well as temporary storage or stockpiling of potable water and other fluids.