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You’ve probably seen staggering photos of what happened last week in New York when a sudden storm dropped a winter's worth of snow on Buffalo in a couple days. With that much snow, many were left stranded or house-bound.
One Canadian was stranded in Buffalo during the snowstorm and shared her story of how the Red Cross helped.
According to recent polling by the Red Cross, two thirds of Canadians say they have not taken steps to prepare in the event of a disaster, like a severe winter storm. Are you and your family prepared for a weather-related emergency?
Here are 9 tips on how to be ready.
1. Learn about the risks in your area and create an emergency preparedness plan keeping in mind your family’s needs.
2. Assemble an emergency preparedness kit for your household with enough supplies for your family to be self-sustainable in the event of an emergency for 72 hours. You can buy a kit at shop.redcross.ca or make your own.
3. Listen to local news and weather reports for information on changing weather conditions.
4. Buy rock salt to melt ice and sand to improve traction.
5. Have an alternative heat source in case of a power outage, such as a gas fireplace, wood burning stove, or a fireplace, so you are able to keep one room in your home warm and liveable.
6. Keep fire extinguishers on-hand and make sure your family knows how to use them.
7. Get trained in first aid. Visit www.redcross.ca/firstaid to find a course near you and download the free Red Cross first aid app for your phone.
8. Prepare your vehicle for winter weather and follow these safe winter driving tips.
9. Create an emergency kit for your vehicle.
Winter is coming! Be ready.
