Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and more intense across the country. That’s according to data from Public Safety Canada, which also found that the most common events are floods, forest fires, earthquakes, thunderstorms, hurricanes and winter storms.
No one wants to go though one of these, but some of us will. Here are some tips to help protect against the worst of the damage affecting you, your family and your property so you make it through unscathed.
- Know the risks to your home
The more you know about what might occur in your area, the better you can prepare. Risks differ from region to region. To get an idea, consider how your geography affects you: For instance, homes next to the Atlantic Ocean may be at risk for hurricanes, the West Coast has earthquakes to consider, and central Canada might focus on what to do in a white out. Find out if you live in a flood plain and consider historical weather events that have passed through your region. - Make a plan just in case
An emergency plan is a crucial step to prepare your home and family for the unexpected. In it, you should include safe meeting places, important information like insurance details and contact information for friends and family. Also note your home’s emergency exit routes, the location of at least one emergency kit, and any important steps and reminders for when a disaster occurs. - Ready your physical space
In addition to creating an emergency plan, take steps to help make your home more resilient:
- Take care of landscaping and cut back any dead branches.
- Store important documents above floor level, and not in the basement.
- Keep heavier items on lower levels of shelves.
- Use surge protectors to prevent power surges when electricity comes back on after an outage.
- Fix cracks, gaps and leaks promptly.
- Ensure landscaping grades away from the home and downspouts point away from the foundation.
- Consider adding backup power if you use a sump pump.
- Consider installing backflow valves for toilets and drains.
- Install weatherstripping around doors and windows.
- Consider durable or fireproof materials such as insulated concrete forms if you are remodelling.
- Store an emergency kit on the premises with supplies to get you through several days.
