With the arrival of the Fall season comes the likely arrival of Fall hurricanes. The first of this season, Hurricane Fiona, is making its way to Halifax, predicted to hit Atlantic Canada this weekend as a "potent post-tropical storm". The Canadian Hurricane Centre warns us of potential heavy rains, damaging winds and flooding.
As longtime Haligonians, we're well acquainted with the damage a Fall storm can do in Halifax - does Hurricane Juan or Hurricane Dorian ring a bell? When your home is well prepared though, watching the leaves twirl and the sky open up with rain can be quite enjoyable and strangely relaxing. Prepare your home for Fall storms right with the following tips so you can sit back and relax while mother nature does it's thing.
Know What's Going On
We live in an age of information. Storm warnings and updates are always well broadcast in Halifax, but it's always good to be proactive and get as much information as possible to better prepare yourself, your home, and your loved ones.
Pay attention to local news sources and Environment Canada in the days leading up to a storm for updates on severity and the target regions. Monitor power outages across Nova Scotia to see which areas are affected and for an estimate of how long it'll take for your power to be restored if its already out.
Secure Your Property
Do you still have patio furniture on your deck, plants hanging from your porch or a trampoline in the backyard? With fierce hurricane winds on the way, it's time to tie your outdoor items down, or better yet, take them in all together.
Trim Branches
Prevent potential damage to your (or your neighbours'!) home during a high winds by cleaning up the trees in your yard. Trim dead, damaged or weak branches to mitigate wind resistance during the hurricane.
Clear the Way for Water
Often with a Fall hurricane comes lots of water! Flooding does a lot of damage on your property, avoid letting water accumulate on your property by making sure your downspouts extend three to six feet, storm drains and gutters are clear of leaves and debris, and that the ground around your downspouts is angled to lead water away from your and your neighbours' properties.
Prepare For A Power Outage
It's not unlikely for your power to go out during a storm in Halifax. Don't let yourself get caught unprepared in the dark. Charge all electronics and ensure your flashlights are in working order in the days leading up to the storm. Combat power outage boredom by gathering boardgames for a household board game night, preparing crafts for the kids or downloading TV shows or movies from your favourite streaming service.
Stock Up on Food & Water
It's suggested to have enough food and water in stock for at least 72 hours when a storm's predicted to hit. Fill up any extra water bottles you have at home and your bathtub so if water supplies are compromised, you'll a supply of water for drinking, washing and flushing the toilet for a few days.
Plan For The Worst Case Scenario
It's always best to plan for the worst. If an emergency happens and you suddenly find yourself in the worst case scenario, you don't want to be wasting precious time delegating tasks, figuring out what to do and gathering whatever supplies you might have around.
Make an emergency plan with everyone your household to minimize stress and confusion in an emergency situation. Make sure everyone understands and agrees to the plan, and has their own copy for reference. If you're unsure where to start, The Government of Canada's emergency preparedness guide is a great jumping off point.
The Government of Canada suggests the following items for a basic emergency kit:
- Bottles of Water
- Non-Perishable Food
- Manual Can opener
- Wind-up or batter powered radio + Extra batteries
- Wind-up or batter powered flashlight + Extra batteries
- First Aid Kit
- Special items e.g. prescription medications, infant formula, equipment for people with disabilities etc.
- Cash
- Important Family documents e.g. Passports, Birth Certificates, Marriage Certificates, Insurance etc.
- Copy of Your Emergency Plan
We hope these tips keep your home in good shape and you and your family safe and relaxed during the storm!
Posted by Team Support on
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