Extreme Winter Weather

Severe winter storms can cause widespread damage and disruption. Heavy snow can result in transportation delays and traffic accidents, ice storms can down power lines and poles. Winter storms may also cause power outages leaving you without heating, lighting, water, or phone services.

Before a Winter Storm

  • Add additional items to your Emergency Kit and Vehicle Emergency Kit for winter.
  • Winterize your home to retain heat by insulating walls and attics, caulking or weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.
  • Be alert to changing weather conditions. If a winter storm watch or warning is issued, take appropriate action.
  • Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.
  • Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.

During a Winter Storm

  • Stay indoors during the storm.
  • Walk carefully on snowy, icy, walkways.
  • Avoid overexertion when shovelling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack - a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside.
  • Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.
  • Keep the water running. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
  • Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive, travel in the day; don’t travel alone; keep others informed of your schedule; stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts.
  • Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.

Contact Us

Phone
705-541-5173

Email
l.perry@cityssm.on.ca

Fax
705-949-2341

TTY
1-877-606-6665

Location
65 Old Garden River Road
Sault Ste. Marie, ON
P6B 5A5

Our Team