Preparing For a Hurricane

The Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) in Nova Scotia is advising Nova Scotians to review their own personal emergency plans, now that hurricane season has begun. Hurricane Bonnie has already shown the effects of these storms can be significant.

"Bonnie is not expected to affect Nova Scotia in a major way, but things can change quickly," said EMO director Mike Lester. "The best way to get ready for a hurricane is to understand what might happen and to be prepared for it."

Nova Scotians should always rely on Canadian sources for weather information. While there is considerable information available from U.S. media regarding hurricanes, much of this information does not consider how these weather systems behave when they enter the colder waters off Eastern Canada. The Canadian Hurricane Centre of Environment Canada is the authoritative source of information on hurricane behaviour.

Good information is key to protecting yourself and your family in an emergency. Make sure you have a battery-operated portable radio, with fresh batteries available at all times. Major weather emergencies can occur at any time of year, and a power failure should never leave you out of touch. A reliable battery-powered radio tuned to a local station will give you access to current information.

Have emergency supplies on hand. In addition to the radio, everyone should have an emergency pack containing:

• flashlight and extra batteries
• first-aid kit and manual
• emergency food and water
• non-electric can opener
• essential medicines
• cash and credit cards

Every family should have an emergency communication plan. This is vital in case family members are separated from one another. This is a possibility during the day when adults are at work and children at school. Have a plan for getting back together.

If a hurricane watch or warning is issued by Environment Canada, make sure your home and family are ready:

• check emergency supplies
• have plenty of fuel in your car
• bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys and garden tools; anchor objects that cannot be brought inside
• in the event of high wind warnings, secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows
• remove outside antennas
• turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings; open only when absolutely necessary and close quickly
• store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils
• review your family's emergency plan
• if you have a boat, moor it securely or move it to a designated safe place; use rope or chain to secure the boat to a trailer; use tiedowns to anchor trailers to the ground or house

When a hurricane strikes, you should:

• stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors
• avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light
• if power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce the power surge when electricity is restored
• minimize your use of the telephone, but do not hesitate to call for help if you need it
• never use a barbecue, camp stove or similar appliance indoors

While evacuations caused by hurricanes are rare in Nova Scotia, the possibility of tidal surges and flooding caused by heavy rainfall is real. Should an evacuation be necessary, local emergency responders such as police and fire departments will provide you with detailed instructions on where to go and how to register with them so that you can be contacted. Remember that pets will usually not be allowed in evacuation centres.

If officials indicate that evacuation is necessary:

• leave as soon as possible; avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges
• secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve
• tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going
• if time permits, and there is a possibility of flooding, elevate furniture to protect it or move it to a higher floor
• bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm protective clothing
• take blankets and sleeping bags to shelter
• lock up your home and leave