The Office of Public Safety is advising Islanders to listen to weather predictions and be prepared for the possibility of heavy rains and high winds this weekend and into Monday.
“Monday is the anniversary of Hurricane Juan, which caused substantial damage in Prince Edward Island in 2003,” said Aaron Campbell, Director of Public Safety. “While there haven’t been any weather watches or warnings issued at this time for the weekend, we are encouraging Islanders to monitor weather reports for developments throughout the weekend, and to plan accordingly.”
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
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.