ARE YOU PREPARED?
(HURON COUNTY, ON) – The Ontario Provincial Police is advising Ontarians to prepare for the potential impact of Hurricane Sandy, which is expected to affect Ontario over the next few days. The impact on Ontario is expected to be significantly less than the north-eastern United States however, high winds and heavy rainfall are forecasted, which could result in flooding, road closures and power outages. Locally in Huron County forecasts call for winds gusting up to 90km/h.
In addition to tuning in to television and radio and signing up for Emergency Alerts, Ontarians are encouraged to have a 72 hour survival kit, containing all the food, water and other necessities their family needs for three days. The Canadian Red Cross has provided some precautionary tips to help you prepare for this storm.
Check your disaster supplies and restock as needed
Keep extra cash on you. If the power is out for a significant amount of time you may not have access to bank machines
Bring in items that can be picked up by the wind
Fill up your vehicle with a tank of gas
Talk with your family and prepare an evacuation plan. Practice this plan consistently in order to avoid confusion and chaos in the midst of an evacuation.
If you live on the coast or in a low lying area be ready to move inland or to higher ground. High winds can create large waves, which may become storm surges when they reach the shore.
For further information on how to prepare please visit www.ontario.ca/sandy. There you will find Emergency Management Ontario’s updates, and valuable information and links on: current weather conditions, local and provincial flooding, where to report a power outage and road conditions and closures.
“It is important that Ontarians take action to ensure their own safety and the safety of their loved ones. They should also stay informed and monitor weather updates. Provincial officials are actively monitoring the situation and will keep Ontarians informed†– Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services
Huron OPP would also like to remind members of the public that calling 9-1-1 is for police, fire, or medical emergencies when someone’s health, safety, or property is in jeopardy or a crime is in progress. Do Not tie up the line for a non-emergency such as a request for road and weather information.
For up to date information on road closures and road conditions on Provincial Highways motorists can call 5-1-1. For non-emergency policing calls please use 1-888-310-1122.
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