The Canadian Hurricane Centre has predicted an active hurricane season this year, and Public Safety Minister Doug Currie is reminding Islanders not to wait until a storm is on its way to begin taking precautions.
“Although we generally associate hurricanes with high winds, the most destructive effect of a hurricane is often a storm surge, which can cause serious flooding,” the Minister said. “Preparedness is a personal responsibility. Don’t wait until a storm is on its way; make sure you have your emergency plan in place so you can take precautions to minimize damage to property and risk to personal safety.”
The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June until November but Prince Edward Island is usually more susceptible during late August and September. So far this season, four named storms have developed in the Atlantic Ocean. Hurricanes can often be predicted one or two days in advance of their landfall.
“We can’t stop the wind from blowing or the water from rising but everyone can take pre-emptive actions that can protect property and save lives,” Minister Currie said. “Islanders can be better prepared by having an emergency supply kit on hand, taking steps necessary to secure home and property, and planning for a safe place to go in the event of evacuation or prolonged power outage.”
For more information on personal preparedness for hurricanes, or other emergencies, go to www.peipublicsafety.ca or look for Office of Public Safety on facebook and Twitter.
For information on hurricane forecasting, check out www.ec.gc.ca/ouragans-hurricanes
Backgrounder
Preparing for Safety during a Hurricane or Tropical Storm:
• Monitor media broadcasts and listen to instructions from local officials.
• High winds can create huge waves which may cause tidal waves or storm surges. Move belongings to higher ground or secure your property as much as possible and move inland for the duration of the storm.
• Make sure your emergency kit is well stocked with enough supplies to take care of yourself and family for at least 72 hours. Items should include: water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, battery operated or wind up radio and flashlight, and special items.
• Protect your property by trimming loose tree limbs and securing lawn furniture, toys, waste bins and other loose objects at your home or cottage.
• On construction and other work sites, take in or secure any objects that can be tossed around in high winds.
• Campers should secure tents, barbeques, lawn chairs and other items, and seek shelter in a secure building. If possible, move RVs to inland areas.
• Never go down to the water to watch the storm.
• Call 911 to report a fire, report a crime, or save a life.