Winter storms can range from a moderate snowfall to a blinding blizzard, and can quickly put people and property at risk, says Environment, Labour and Justice Minister Janice Sherry.
“As we all know, winter storms can be accompanied by heavy snowfall, strong winds, ice and sleet,” said Ms. Sherry. “When snow and ice build up on tree branches, rooftops and utility lines, we face dangerous conditions and, often, power outages.”
“As temperatures begin to drop, safe heating becomes an issue as well,” said Ms. Sherry. “Home fires are more likely to occur in winter than in any other season.”
The Office of Public Safety offers the following tips for emergency preparedness and fire prevention this winter.
Family emergency preparedness:
• Update or create your basic home emergency kit with necessary supplies for adults, children and family members with special needs. Don’t forget your pets.
• Include medications and special care supplies, and update your first aid kit.
• You should have a hand crank or battery operated radio and flashlight.
• Non-perishable food in your kit should be replaced every year, to ensure freshness. Make sure you have a manual can opener.
• Cordless phones need electricity to operate. Everyone should have at least one corded phone in the house.
• Have a three-day supply of water on hand, at least two litres per person per day.
• It’s a good idea to also include extra keys, important documents (in a waterproof container) and cash in small bills. In a power outage ATMs and credit machines won’t work.
Emergency preparedness on the road:
• Prepare a vehicle emergency kit for use in the event that you get stuck in your vehicle due to snow, ice or other hazards.
• Your emergency kit should include non-perishable food, water (in a freeze-proof container), wind up or battery operated flashlight, emergency flag, etc.
• A small candle in a deep metal tin can provide warmth and light. Don’t forget water proof matches.
• You may want to carry special winter provisions in your vehicle, such as sand or kitty litter and a shovel.
• Keep your car gassed up. This gives you more options if trouble arises and helps prevent freezing condensation that can stall your engine.
• Monitor Environment Canada weather predictions and listen for warnings or instructions from local officials.
Winter Fire Prevention:
• Maintain a three-foot clearance around heating equipment such as the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater.
• Always turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Test all smoke alarms monthly.
• If using a portable generator, carefully follow the manufacture’s instructions.
• Always locate the unit outside and far from doors, windows and vents. Never use a portable generator inside a home, garage or crawlspace, even when using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation.
• Consider installing a carbon monoxide alarm.
For more information on personal emergency preparedness or fire prevention, call toll free 1-877-894-0385, visit www.peipublicsafety.ca or follow @peipublicsafety on Twitter or Facebook.