Public Advisory: Winter Storm Preparedness Encouraged

Fire and Emergency Services – Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL) is reminding residents to be prepared in the event of severe weather and to take necessary steps to ensure personal safety throughout the winter months.

Extreme weather such as blizzards, ice storms, hail, severe winds, and power outages can bring numerous hazards. Steps should be taken in advance not only to save time and effort, but also to ease frustration and stress when in the midst of winter weather.

FES-NL recommends residents keep an emergency preparedness kit in an easily accessible location which contains items that will be beneficial during a storm or power outage. These items include battery-powered flashlights and radios, tools for emergency repair, ready-to-eat food, a first aid kit, blankets, and extra clothing. It is also recommended that an emergency kit be placed in personal and commercial vehicles. Further information on how residents can prepare for extreme weather can be found in the backgrounder below.

Residents should also be mindful of the methods used to heat their homes during the winter months and take care to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms are also strongly recommended to provide advanced warning to residents in an emergency.

More information on personal preparedness can be found at: www.gov.nl.ca/fes or www.getprepared.ca

- 30 -

Media contact:
Cheryl Gullage
Public Relations Specialist
Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-0857, 631-9962
cherylgullage@gov.nl.ca 

BACKGROUNDER
Preparedness Tips for Severe Winter Weather

General Tips

• Be aware of the weather forecasts, especially when travelling or leaving the home for long periods of time;
• Ensure a personal emergency preparedness kit is developed and all contents are ready for use. Instructions on preparing a kit can be found at www.gov.nl.ca/fes/epw/readykitgo.html
• Bank machines will not work in a power outage. Therefore, it is recommended your emergency kit contain cash in the event money is needed;
• Account for the needs of any household pets and ensure animals normally kept outdoors are safe from extreme weather;
• Be aware of all local emergency numbers;
• Stock up on any fuel products which may be needed for vehicles or equipment intended for use;
• Understand your insurance policy and potential coverage for fire and emergency situations;
• Smoke alarms should be tested on a regular basis and batteries checked annually;
• Install a carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area.

Before and During Blizzards, Ice Storms and other Extreme Weather

• Stay indoors if at all possible. If you must go outside, ensure you are dressed for the weather and protected against the elements with tightly woven and water repellent clothing;
• Remove dead tree branches, which could pose a hazard or threat;
• Ensure any yard items or tools that may be thrown around or torn away in high winds are secured to avoid potential damage;
• A reminder that cordless phones will not work in the event of a power outage. A hard-lined phone is recommended;
• Should you notice downed power lines in your area, do not touch or attempt to move, but instead advise your utility provider immediately;
• Avoid overexertion while shoveling and clearing pathways during or after a storm.

For Commuters
In times of extreme weather, commuters should avoid travelling on roadways unless absolutely necessary.

Should travel be necessary, a few tips to keep in mind:

• Ensure someone is aware of your travel plans and the time you anticipate arriving at your destination. Also be sure to check in once your reach your planned target;
• Be ready to pull over in a safe location should conditions become too intense to reach your destination;
• An emergency preparedness kit should be assembled for your vehicle, including a shovel, sand (or kitty litter), booster cables, a blanket, water, non-perishable food items (such as energy bars, which keep well in a vehicle), a flashlight, a battery powered or wind-up radio, poncho, first aid kit, multi-purpose knife and other essential items.

2011 12 08                         1:10 p.m.