August 2026 MEC Newsletter

August 2026 MEC newsletter

Submitted by Darrel Van Den Bussche (Municipal Emergency Coordinator (MEC))

Winter is coming!!!! Why not get ready early so you and your family are prepared for the unexpected! With a little preparation, you can respond quickly to help yourself and others. Understand the risks in your area over the brisk winter months, create a household emergency plan and build an emergency kit. 

 

Prepare your home

●    Take steps to winterize your home including:

○    insulating walls and attics

○    caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows

○    installing outdoor storm windows or covering windows with plastic indoors

●    Have shovels, salt, and snow removal supplies in an easily accessed place

●    Install snow fences in rural areas to reduce drifting snow on roads and paths

●    Check your house including your roof for damage

●    Consider having an alternate power source (e.g., outdoor generator) in case you lose power for an extended period of time

●    Consider having a backup heat source (e.g., fireplace, wood stove, or space heater) so that you can stay warm

●    If required, string a lifeline (such as a rope) between your house and any outbuildings that you might have to access during the winter

 

Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

●    Install certified carbon monoxide alarms with battery backup in hallways and outside of sleeping areas

●    If you have fuel burning appliances such as stoves or fireplaces, make sure they are well maintained and working properly

●    Clean your chimney and flues

●    Never use a fuel-burning generator or fuel-burning cooking equipment such as BBQs or camping stoves inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or shed, or under a covered area outside the house (such as under an awning or gazebo)

●    Operate portable generators at least 6 metres (20 feet) from all homes or buildings. Direct the exhaust away from open windows and doors. Close all windows and doors closest to or downwind from the generator

●    If you use your vehicle to charge electronics or warm up, do not idle your vehicle in a garage, even with the garage door open

●    Ensure proper ventilation if using fuel-burning appliances

 

Prepare your vehicle

●    Be ready to change or cancel your travel plans if hazardous travel conditions are expected

●    Get a vehicle emergency kit including winter supplies

●    Ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter conditions, such as having winter tires a full tank of gas and plenty of windshield washer fluid