Preparing for Hurricane Season in Nova Scotia

The Emergency Management Office is urging Nova Scotians to prepare for the peak of hurricane season.

The season runs from June to November, but usually has the most activity in September, which can bring rain, high winds, storm surge, localized flooding and power outages.

"Our emergency management officials are in regular contact with Environment Canada and emergency planners across the province," said Ross Landry, Minister of Emergency Management. "September is the time for Nova Scotians to have our families ready for the possibility of having to wait out a storm or its effects. It's the perfect time to ensure our homes have a 72-hour kit."

Emergency Management Office recommends that Nova Scotians plan for their own circumstances, including preparations for pets. Planning to be without power or water for 72 hours will cover most emergencies. Guides on how to prepare for emergencies are available at www.gov.ns.ca/emo .

To prepare for a weather-related emergency:

• Maintain an emergency kit, including food, a supply of water, clothing, blankets, medication, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries and a first-aid kit.
• Have cash on hand in case of a prolonged power outage.
• Prepare freezer packs by placing water-filled soda or plastic milk containers in deep freezers. These can be used to help keep the freezer and/or refrigerator cold in the event of a power outage.
• Choose a shelter area away from windows. A basement, storm cellar or closet beneath the stairs can provide a good shelter in a severe storm.
• Choose a meeting place for family members and set up some form of communication to notify each other of whereabouts and safety.
• Make arrangements to help a senior or other person in the neighbourhood who may need added assistance.
• People should secure objects on their property that could be torn loose or blown around. Protect homes as much as possible from heavy rains and floods.

Many Nova Scotians are watching Hurricane Leslie with interest. The storm is stalled in the south Atlantic, and there are several options for its future path. However, we have seen higher surf along the south and eastern shores, and that is likely to continue.

"We also urge Nova Scotians and visitors to avoid going to coastal areas to watch a storm," said Mr. Landry. "This can be very dangerous, because storm surge and waves are unpredictable."

Visit www.gov.ns.ca/emo or on Facebook at Emergency Management Office Nova Scotia, or follow @nsemo on Twitter for more information on emergency preparedness.