HomeMy WebLinkAboutLakeshore Advance, 2012-08-08, Page 592 Lakeshore Advance • Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Are you prepared for a tornado?
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program that individuals should take responsibility for their own
safety, monitor weather news, ensure that they have a shelter in
place site within their homes, that they have a 72 hour Emer-
gency Kit, with water, food, flashlights, etc.," said Byrne.
Environment Canada's Geoff Coulson said the Goderich
recent history played a role in the early notification, but it was
clear as early as Tuesday night that weather would be unstable
enough that it could cause problems.
Environment Canada brought in extra staff to monitor devel-
opments, Coulson said.
He said the aim of early notification is not to scare residents
but to prepare them with "a tap on the shoulder" to make sure
they were near safe shelter.
Being prepared- a watch and a warning
The "watch" designation indicates no tornado has been
sighted but that a major storm is brewing.
A "warning" is an urgent message that severe weather is either
occurring or will occur.
Emergency Management Ontario (EMO) says most tomadoes
occur between May and September each year. If there is a tor-
nado approaching, seek shelter immediately. You will want to
put as many walls as you can between you and the tornado (e.g.,
in a basement or the most interior room). If you are caught out-
side, find a low area, such as a ditch, lie flat and cover your head
with your arms. "Knowing these tips ahead of time and monitor-
ing the weather could save your life."
The "watch" designation indicates no tornado has been
sighted but that a major storni is brewing.
A "warning" is an urgent message that severe weather is either
occurring or will occur.
EMO states severe summer storms can include thunder, light-
ning, hail and tornadoes. They often occur when the weather is
hot and humid. A good rule of thumb is "if the sky roars, get
indoors': During a severe summer storm, you are advised to stay
away from items which can conduct electricity, such as appli-
ances and running water. Rernain inside for 30 minutes after the
last rumble of thunder to ensure the storm has moved well away
from your location.
When 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 espe-
cially 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 communicat-
ing with family members who may he at work, school or away
from home when a stomp 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,
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storm cellar or a closet beneath stairs. If none of these are avail-
able, sit underieath a sturdy piece of furniture on the ground
floor in the centre of the building away trona outside oaths and
windows. Be sure you discuss the shelter area with your (amity,
• If you are outdoors, take shelter immediately - preferably in
a building. If there is lightning and you cannot get inside, lit' in a
depressed area such as a ditch or culvert, but never under a tree.
If caught in the open, do not lit' flat an the ground - sit in a frog
position and lower your head,
• Do not approach any downed bower lint's, if you nue in your
car and a power line Galls on it, remain in your ear. 1ho not
attempt to get out until emergency ctrws arrive to help.
• Avoid driving through flooded roads and underpasses. '1 he
water may be a great deal ti 'pet than it looks and you would get
stuck. Also avoid crossing bridges if the water is high and now
ing quickly.
• Use caution when driving because trafiic lights may nut
operate. if the traffic lights an, out treat the intersection as a Iota'
way stop.
• Do not use 9-1-1 unless it is a genuine emergency.
• Listen to local radio for emergency information,
• Use prolog candleholders. Never leave candles unattetuteti
and keep then away from combustible materials,
• Check on elderly or disabled neighbours. Ryon tined assist
ance yourself, contact neighbours for help,
• If there is a power outage, keep your fridge and tree0er sly'
unless absolutely necessary. A full free/yr can keep fond trtl,l
for 24-36 hours lithe door stays shut.
• Don't use charcoal, gas barbecues or home generators
indoors. 'they give off deadly carbon monoxide,
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