Make emergency preparedness your priority this winter season
Thursday, November 9, 2017
Winter Preparedness Week runs November 13 - 17
Winter is upon us, and this morning is a great opportunity to remind our residents to make sure their kits and plans are ready for the change in weather. Next week, November 13 - 17, Sault Ste. Marie Emergency Management will be out in the community and taking to social media to remind people how they can get prepared.
Winter Preparedness Week raises awareness on the importance of being ready for unexpected emergencies. Winter brings seasonal challenges to our community, and while many see the importance of being prepared, most people have yet to take the necessary steps to stay safe.
Severe winter storms can cause widespread damage and disruption. Heavy snow can result in transportation delays and traffic accidents, and ice storms can down power lines and poles. Winter storms may also cause power outages leaving you without heating, lighting, water, or phone services.
Be prepared before a winter storm by ensuring that additional items have been added to your home emergency kit. Be alert to changing weather conditions and if a winter storm is issued, take appropriate action. Minimize travel, but if travel is necessary, ensure you have an emergency vehicle kit that includes food, water, flashlight, extra clothing, blankets, sand/salt and a small shovel.
Winter storms kill more Canadians than tornadoes, thunderstorms, lightning, floods and hurricanes combined, so take the time today to get ready for tomorrow. For more tips on preparing for severe winter weather, visit
saultstemarie.ca/winterpreparedness or follow @SaultFire on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.