General News

How to adequately prepare for winter weather ahead of time

November 28, 2024   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

Colder weather is on the way, and along with it comes the potential for danger during winter storms.

Winter storms kill more Canadians than tornadoes, thunderstorms, lightning, floods, and hurricanes combined.

When a winter storm arrives, you should be prepared so you and your family can stay safe.

During a storm, you should avoid unnecessary travel. Wear layers of lightweight clothing, mittens and a hat – preferably one that covers your ears.

Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry and to keep from slipping on ice and snow.

If you are outdoors, regularly check for frostbite. Signs include numbness or white areas on your face and body – ears, nose, cheeks, hands, and feet, in particular.

Avoid overexertion when shovelling snow by taking frequent breaks.

Bring pets inside and move livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.

During a winter storm, there is a risk of a power outage. This can be caused by high winds, freezing rain or flooding.

If a power outage occurs you may lose access to water, electricity, heat, information services and communication channels. This can also disrupt services such as grocery stores, banks and ATMs, gas stations, and pharmacies.

If your power goes out, verify if the power is still on elsewhere. Check your electrical panel and speak with your neighbours. Contact your utility service provider to report the outage and to get information about its scale. Keep yourself, children, and pets at least 10 metres away from any downed power lines.

Turn off and unplug appliances and electronics except for your refrigerator and freezer.

Keep one light on inside to alert you when power is restored, and keep one light on outside to alert utility workers when power is restored.

Do not use a gas stove or oven as a heat source – this could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not use charcoal or gas barbecues, camping stoves, or home generators indoors.

To prepare for a winter storm, you should have an emergency preparedness kit assembled ahead of time.

This kit should include a flashlight, water, non-perishable food, extra blankets, and warm clothes.

During warmer weather, trim branches hanging over your house or vehicle so they don’t get weighed down with snow and ice and damage your property.

Also, be sure to stock up on salt to prevent falls on your driveway or sidewalk.

Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are in good working order.

By preparing ahead of time, you can get through a winter storm safely. 


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