How to prepare for an Ice Storm...
- c.loos
- Dec 29, 2019
- 2 min read
With the potential of an ice storm looming in Minto, Minto Fire is reminding the public to top up their emergency preparedness kits. As ice storms usually bring power outages it’s important for our residents to be prepared to be self sustainable for 72 hours. Essentials
Food (non-perishable, enough for 3 days), a manual can opener
Bottled water (4 litres/person/day)
Medication(s)
Flashlight, Radio (crank or battery-run)
Extra batteries, First-aid kit
Hand sanitizer or moist towelettes
Identification, copies of prescriptions
Extra car keys, cash, Whistle
Zip-lock bag, garbage bags
Special Considerations
Items for babies & small children—diapers, formula, bottles, baby food, comfort items
Prescription medication
Medical supplies and equipment
Pet food and supplies
Any other items specific to your family
Preparedness is the key to getting through an ice storm with minimum danger and discomfort. Along with an emergency preparedness kit, here are some other helpful tips to get you through an ice storm event: Prior to an Ice Storm
Turn your refridgerator and freezer to their coldest setting
Fill up your car’s gas tank
During an Ice Storm
Keep your home warmer by closing the doors to the rooms not needed
Keep an eye on your neighbours, particularly those who are elderly, with children or living alone.
Ice from freezing rain can accumulate on branches, power lines and homes. If you must go outside after an ice storm, pay attention to branches or wires that could break. Remember that branches and power lines can break up to several hours after an ice storm.
Never touch power lines. A hanging power line could be charged (live) and you could get electrocuted.
During a Power Outage
Stay warm during a power outage by staying inside and dressing in warm, layered clothing.
Stuff towels and rags underneath doors to keep the heat in.
Unplug electronics and appliances to avoid a power surge. Turn on appliances one at a time once the power is restored.
Turn off all lights, except one, so that you can tell when the power comes back on.
Do not operate generators, BBQs, propane and natural gas appliances inside the home or garage as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
Make sure your home has a working carbon monoxide alarm with a battery backup.
Check for damaged or fallen power lines, but do not approach them to avoid the risk of electrocution.
Don’t open your freezer or fridge unless absolutely necessary. A full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours if doors stay closed.
If lighting candles keep out of reach of children. Never leave lit candles unattended.
Ensure the fireplace screen is in place when burning fuel in a fireplace.
Avoid burning trash or paper in a fireplace, as flaming paper can travel up the chimney and land on your roof
In the event a major ice storm does happen, MFD will provide updates regularly to the public via radio, social media, and email service.
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