Winter Storm

Winterize your home

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• install storm shutters 
• clean the gutters
• check your roof for damage
• ensure proper insulation in the walls and attic 
• cover windows with plastic on the inside to keep in heat 
• use portable electric space heaters where necessary - remember to keep the area around a space heater clear, and do not leave them running when you leave the house.

Winterize your vehicle

• have a qualified mechanic inspect and prepare vehicle for winter conditions, including:
  • snow tires
  • general maintenance of the battery
  • electronics
  • fluids
  • thermostat
  • lights
  • brakes
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with extra clothes, blankets, and candles. 
• Ensure that your vehicle's gas tank is always at least half-full. 
• Have your 72-hour emergency kit ready in case you need to evacuate or shelter-in-place. Be prepared for power outages. 
• Service snow removal equipment and keep a supply of rock salt to melt ice on walkways.

Pet reminder

• Bring pets inside and move livestock to sheltered areas and supply non-frozen drinking water. 

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• Keep informed about upcoming weather conditions by checking your local forecast. 
• Avoid or delay non-essential travel if extreme weather conditions are expected. 
• Make sure you have a well-stocked vehicle emergency kit. 
• Have good winter tires to ensure good tire traction. 
• If you have a block heater, plug in your vehicle for a few hours during extreme cold temperatures before you drive. 
• If you need to leave, let someone know where you're going, your route, and your expected arrival time. 
• Clean snow and ice off your vehicle and ensure your headlights and all windows are clear.
• Drive according to weather conditions such as lowering your speed and leave extra distance between your vehicle and other vehicles, including sanders, graders, and snow plows. 
• Ensure your windshield fluid is topped-up and replace wiper blades if they leave streaks. 

If you become stuck in your vehicle: 

• Remain calm, stay inside the vehicle (if safe) and call for help.
• Occasionally run the engine to stay warm, but make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked with snow and beware of exhaust fumes. 
• Allow fresh air in by opening the window slightly on the sheltered side away from the wind. 

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• Don't venture out if extreme weather conditions are expected. 
• Make sure your heating system is in good working order. Consider having a back-up heating system or supplies for a wood-burning fireplace if you have one. 
• Dress for the weather - have layers to add or remove including mittens and a hat (preferably one that covers your ears). 
  • Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry and to keep from slipping on ice and snow.
• If you must be outside, seek shelter and keep moving to maintain body heat. 
• If you begin to experience symptoms of frostbit or hypothermia, seek medical attention or call 911. 
• Check on family, friends, and neighbours who may require additional support during a winter storm. 
• Have a working carbon monoxide (CO) detector and be very cautious if you are using space heaters indoors.

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• Ensure your furnace and exhaust vents are free of snow and ice. Carbon monoxide (CO) can build up inside your home if it cannot vent outside. 
• If you can, clear the snow away from fire hydrants in your neighbourhood. Every second counts in an emergency and having a clear fire hydrant can allow firefighters to respond to a fire emergency quicker.
• Be a good neighbour and help shovel if you are able. Ensure not to overexert yourself and take frequent breaks.