Prepare for Heat & Wildfires
Summer is a long way off but it's always a good time to think about being Firesmart.
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Even if we avoid the weather extremes there may be a prolonged dry spell when there may be a threat of fire.
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Go to FireSmart BC for more information. Watch the video about a homeowner saving their home. Consider doing NOW, all the steps that they took when immediately threatened by a fire.
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Be Prepared:
Always be prepared for spending up to three days in your home with little or no help. If we have strong winds combined with a power outage it may take 24 to 48 hours to clear the fallen trees and turn power on. Stay connected with your neighbours. One of them may be able to help you during extreme weather events
When extreme heat is in the forecast there are a few things you can do to prepare:
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Keep your house cool - turn off all electrical appliances that are not being used. They all emit heat.
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During the day keep your curtains and blinds closed. Open windows at night and close during the day.
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Keep yourself cool - wear lightweight, loose fitting clothing.
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Keep a 'hot' water bottle filled with cold water and in the fridge. Keep ice packs in the freezer. Use both as needed to stay cool.
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Drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages.
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Keep your cell phone charged
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Send an email to seppquadracircle@gmail.com to let us know if you have an appointment scheduled and may need help.
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Battery powered or rechargeable lantern
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Extra batteries
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Radio for am/fm/weather with batteries, plugin, crank and solar options
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Headlight with batteries or rechargeable
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Water 4L per day = 12L, about 2 to 3 gallons for one person – refillable jugs available at TruValue.
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Keep your kitchen stocked with non-perishable or frozen food – canned goods, oats/breakfast cereals, peanut butter, rice, root veggies, bread.
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Manual can opener
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Hand warmers – 6 to 10 packages should last 3 days
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Hot/cold pack (or hot water bottle) - can be warmed in hot water or microwave and used to make bed warmer or to warm feet before bed
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Sleeping bag/blankets
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Leather work gloves
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Lighter and/or matches
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Medications
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Pet food – at least 3 days supply
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5 gallon pail with several heavy duty garbage bags – emergency latrine
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Whistle to attract attention if needed
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Suggested item – car jumper pack – can charge cell phones for 3 days
Throughout the year you should have the following on hand to be prepared for up to 3 days without help.
Safety and Emergency supplies can be ordered online through a Canadian company. https://www.canadiansafetysupplies.com. Crank radios and lights may be the most useful items--Quadra Circle has some available in stock or to order.