It may be shorts weather, but be prepared for summer storms

It's not always sunshine during the summer months, writes Andrew Zvanitajs

Thestar.com
June 9, 2022
Chief Andrew Zvanitajs

As we saw a few weeks ago, summer weather can be intense. The storm that hit southern Ontario during the May long weekend was a reminder: it’s important to be prepared, so you and your family can endure everything from thunderstorms with heavy rainfall and hail, to strong winds with power outages, which can last for hours or even days.

To help make sure everyone stays safe, follow these tips.

Build a home emergency kit with enough supplies to last 72 hours. This should include blankets, clothes, a flashlight with extra batteries, food and water, activities, a first aid kit and a whistle.

Next, create another kit for your vehicle, with items such as booster cables, a first aid kit, emergency flares, a small tool kit and a flashlight with extra batteries. For a complete list of the recommended items, visit vaughan.ca/emergencyplanning.

Be prepared before an emergency strikes. Make an emergency preparedness plan for your family so everyone knows what to do. A template is available on vaughan.ca/emergencyplanning. This helpful document has information on how to respond to different emergencies, and steps to take if you need to shelter in place or evacuate.

Is there someone in your home who needs extra help to evacuate? Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) offers special assistance to elderly residents, and anyone with a medical, mental health or physical condition that requires help getting to safety during an emergency.

Firefighters reference the Vulnerable Persons Registry when responding to an emergency, so they are prepared to provide special assistance to those who need it. Add yourself or a member of your household to the free, voluntary registry by visiting vaughan.ca/emergencyplanning or by calling 905-832-8506, ext. 8932, to request a paper copy of the form. Update this information annually and notify VFRS if the person no longer resides at the location on record.

It’s also important to be informed and know your risks. For example, check weather conditions before heading out, especially if you plan to go camping or boating. Always remember, when thunder roars, go indoors! Stay inside for at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder. If you can hear thunder, you can get hit by lightning.

Get out and enjoy the great weather while it’s here, but keep in mind weather can be unpredictable. Have fun and stay safe this summer.