In the wake of record rainfall in August, and a large number of tropical storms and hurricanes developing in the Atlantic Ocean, the Minister responsible for public safety is urging Islanders to listen to weather reports and take storm warnings seriously.
Hon. Carolyn Bertram, Minister of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour says major storms can, and do, happen here. “The key to protection is preparation.”
In September 2003, Hurricane Juan hit Prince Edward Island knocking out electricity, causing considerable damage to trees, shorelines and property. The ice storm of January 2008 left thousands of Island homes and businesses without electricity and disrupted local travel for days.
Although Hurricane season officially runs from the beginning of June to the end of November, the most intense storms usually occur between mid-August and mid-October. An average of 10 tropical storms develop over the Atlantic Ocean each year, with about six of them evolving into hurricanes.
“Throughout Prince Edward Island, we often experience a variety of severe weather events, including flooding and storm surges, tropical storms and hurricanes, blizzards and ice storms, to name just a few,” says Minister Bertram. “By taking sensible measures before, during, and after a storm, Islanders can better protect themselves and their property.”
Minister Bertram reminds Islanders that preparing for emergencies is a shared responsibility. “When it comes to emergency preparedness and emergency management, we all have a role to play.”
Individuals and families should be prepared to take care of self and family for a minimum of 72 hours during an emergency. Municipalities are responsible for managing local emergencies as part of their municipal emergency plan. The Provincial government, through the Emergency Measures Organization and with the assistance of non-government organizations such as the Red Cross and Salvation Army, manages large-scale emergencies and provides assistance to municipal or emergency responders upon request. The Federal Office of Public Safety supports the provincial Emergency Measures Office as requested.
For more information on how you can prepare for various types of emergencies, and for a free copy of the 72 Hour Emergency Preparedness Guide, contact the Prince Edward Island Emergency Measures Organization at 894-0385, 888-8050 or www.peiemo.ca
Additional information and updates on hurricanes can be found on the Environment Canada Hurricane Centre website www.atl.ec.gc.ca/weather/hurricane
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Before a Storm or Hurricane:
• Flying objects such as garbage cans, lawn furniture and unsecured metal roofing can injure people and damage property. Secure anything that could be blown around or torn loose. Trim dead or rotting branches and remove dead trees.
• Prepare for a power outage. Store drinking water in containers; have food available that does not need refrigeration or cooking.
• Keep up to date by listening to the latest warnings and advisories in the media or on the Canadian Hurricane Centre website.
• Have a hand crank or battery operated radio and spare batteries available.
• Have hand crank or battery operated flashlights on hand.
• Prepare for special health requirements in advance in case you loose electricity, have to evacuate or are unable to get to a pharmacy.
• Plan a meeting place ahead of time with family members. Remember, when a storm strikes, members of your household may be at work, school or elsewhere.
• Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage for the range of risks.
• Prepare your emergency kit. An emergency kit should contain the following: a first aid kit, food and bottled water, cash, medication (at least 1 weeks supply), personal supplies, special items for infants, elderly persons or pets, and clothing for family members.
During a Storm or Hurricane:
• Unless you have been instructed to evacuate, or your home is unsafe for some reason, the best place to wait out a storm is at home.
• It is important to remain indoors during a hurricane. Stay away from windows and outer walls.
• It is extremely dangerous to travel or move about when the winds and tides are whipping about.
• Keep well informed by listening to the latest warnings and advisories on the radio, TV or internet.
• Be aware that there could be a lull in the wind and a sudden calm that may last for a few minutes to half an hour or more. Stay in a safe place during this time; the second half of the circular storm will sweep over your area soon.
After a Storm or Hurricane:
• Listen to media reports which will advise when it is safe to venture out or travel on the roads.
• Debris, broken power lines and washed out roads and bridges will make driving dangerous after a severe storm. Drive only if necessary.
• It is important that telephone lines are left free for official use. Refrain from using the telephone, except in an emergency.
• If the power has been off for several hours, be sure to check the food in the refrigerator and freezer to make sure the food is safe to serve (www.gov.pe.ca/environmentalhealth – click on Brochures and Fact Sheets).
• Unless you are asked to help, or are qualified to give specific assistance, stay away from damaged areas.