Preparing for Isabel's Aftermath

Tips for Dealing with High Winds and Heavy Rainfall

The remnants of Hurricane Isabel are expected to reach Ontario on Friday, Sept. 19, 2003. Isabel will probably have lost hurricane status by the time it arrives in Ontario, but high winds and significant amounts of rainfall are expected.

Emergency Management Ontario advises the public to follow these safety tips.

Before the storm:

• Listen to your local radio station for the most up-to-date storm information.
• Store or tie down all outdoor furniture, garbage cans, lawn ornaments or anything else that may blow around.
• If possible, trim dead or rotting branches that might be especially susceptible to high winds and rain. Check the drainage around the house to reduce the possibility of flooding after a heavy rain.
• Have a meeting place arranged or some way of communicating with family members who may be at work, school or away from home when a storm hits.
• Have a supply of water, food, clothing, blankets, medication and first-aid and tool kits as well as flashlights, batteries and a portable radio.

During the storm:

• If winds become extremely high, take shelter in a basement, storm cellar or a closet beneath stairs. If none of these are available, sit underneath a sturdy piece of furniture on the ground floor in the centre of the building away from outside walls and windows. Be sure you discuss the shelter area with your family.
• If you are outdoors, take shelter immediately - preferably in a building. If there is lightening and you cannot get inside, lie in a depressed area such as a ditch or culvert, but never under a tree. If caught in the open, do not lie flat on the ground - sit in a frog position and lower your head.
• Do not approach any downed power lines. If you are in your car and a power line falls on it, remain in your car. Do not attempt to get out until emergency crews arrive to help.
• Avoid driving through flooded roads and underpasses. The water may be a great deal deeper than it looks and you could get stuck. Also avoid crossing bridges if the water is high and flowing quickly.
• Use caution when traveling because traffic lights may not operate. If the traffic lights are out treat the intersection as a 4-way stop.
• Do not use 911 unless it is a genuine emergency.
• Listen to local radio for emergency information.
• Use proper candleholders, never leave candles unattended and keep away from combustible materials.
• Check on elderly or disabled neighbours. If you need assistance yourself, contact neighbours for help.
• If there is a power outage, keep your fridge and freezer shut unless absolutely necessary. A full freezer can keep food frozen for 24-36 hours if the door stays shut.
• Don't use charcoal, gas barbecues or home generators indoors. They give off deadly carbon monoxide.