Severe weather safety tips: Be prepared before it arrives
theweathernetwork.com
Friday, May 5, 2017, 3:53 PM - Canadians are very familiar with a diverse mix of weather conditions that are often unpredictable and sometimes unseasonable. Even the most extreme conditions can strike at any time of year, and in any part if the country.
Here’s how you can prepare for some severe situations:
Hail:
• Hail pellets can range in size from 0.5 cm to 10 cm in diameter, and can hit the ground at around 130 km/h.
• If you suspect a hail storm, stay inside and away from windows and any glass that could shatter
• Move valuable items (i.e. your vehicle) inside or into your garage.
• Secure any outdoor items that could blow away and damage your home, this may also mean cutting down any weak branches or trees.
Lightning:
• If someone is struck by lighting, call 911 immediately. If the person's heart has stopped beating, a qualified person should perform CPR.
• Follow the 30/30 Rule: If you can count 30 seconds between a bolt of lighting and the sound of thunder, remain inside until you have not heard thunder for at least 30 minutes.
• Remain indoors. Avoid windows, running water, and do not use electrical appliances or the telephone.
• If you are outdoors, avoid water.
Flooding:
• Prepare your home: Water proof and elevate your electrical and heating units, especially if they are in your basement. Move your valuables to the upper floors of your home.
• Pack a bag with a first aid kit, food, clean drinking water, and a charged cellphone and radio.
• Do not attempt to walk or drive through either rushing or still floodwater. Floodwater can contain dangerous debris, as well as toxic substances and sewage.
• Do not enter building that have been evacuated.
Tornadoes:
• Look for the signs: dark skies, rotating funnel clouds, hail, thunder.
• If you are indoors, avoid windows and all glass that could shatter.
• If you in a mall, school, grocery store etc., move the the lowest floor of the building.
• If you are stuck outdoors, find low ground and protect your head with your hands or a blanket.
• If you are in a car: park, put on your seat belt, and stay low.
Source: Ready|FEMA|Public Safety Canada
