Communities in hurricane-prone areas prepare for the impending arrival of nature’s most potent and devastating force as the winds gather up pace and the skies grow menacingly foreboding. As locals prepare for potential calamities that could disrupt and imperil their lives, the hurricane season is accompanied by a mixture of apprehension and anticipation.
Emergency preparedness becomes more important than ever in the face of these powerful natural occurrences. Given the past devastation caused by storms, it is crucial that people, families, and communities arm themselves with the skills, resources, and fortitude required to survive such trying times.
Know the risks
Hurricanes, extreme cold, snow, and ice, as well as fire and flash floods, are just a few of the weather-related catastrophes that Nova Scotians could experience during the year. Especially if you reside close to an industrial area, power plant, train tracks, or port, industrial accidents are a year-round possibility.
Make a plan
Your emergency plan should include a list of emergency contacts in and outside of your community, as well as a summary of the whereabouts and phone numbers of each member of your family. It should include name those who will be in charge of picking up your children if you are unable to do so. Remember that you won’t be able to look up contact information online if the power and internet go out. Include any pertinent details, such as pet supplies and paperwork. Be prepared for emergencies by knowing what to do and where to go, including possible travel paths and destinations.
Make sure you are familiar with both their locations and how to use the following items in your home: fire extinguishers; water main and gas shut-off valve; electrical breaker box; basement floor drains.
Gather what you’ll need
Making an emergency kit is a wise idea. You must be ready for two possibilities: either you must remain in your home for at least 72 hours or you must flee.
It’s also a good idea to make sure your car has an emergency kit if you’re driving in dangerous winter weather. A small shovel, ice scraper, brush, sand or cat litter, a tow chain, booster cables, antifreeze, warning lights or flares, a flashlight with batteries or glow sticks, spare clothing and shoes, a blanket, food and bottled water, a hatchet, a first aid kit, and a compass should all be included. Make sure your automobile is always fueled up and that you have money on hand.
Stay informed
Pay attention to the weather forecast and make sure you are aware of the locations of significant industrial facilities close to your home (such as power plants or oil refineries). If there is a weather notice or warning in force, make sure you know how to stay informed about Nova Scotia emergency warnings and information by tuning in to a local news source (on the radio or online).
Be ready to go
You might not receive much notice if you need to leave in an emergency. Being ready will make it simpler to quickly reach safety and may also make it simpler to get home after the storm.
More safety tips at https://www.yourdoctors.ca/blog/healthy-living/emerg-prep
Reference: https://www.yourdoctors.ca/
Photo by Roger Brown: https://www.pexels.com/photo/first-aid-and-surival-kits-5125690/
