‘Tis the season! That time of the year to batten down the hatches and “Be Prepared!” as Nova Scotia’s beloved Frankie MacDonald says. There’s no such thing as being too prepared and since Halifax is welcoming back many new student residents, here are some key ways to be ready for the incoming storm:
Have enough supplies for 72 hours (food, water, medication, pet supplies)
Power outages in Nova Scotia Hurricane Season tend to last for days at a time. Be sure to stock up on food, drinking water, batteries, charged battery blocks, first aid supplies and whatever else you think you would need during a power outage. Power outages will affect laundry facilities and may impact running water so perhaps it’s best to get on a few loads of laundry in the meantime.
Fill your gas tank or stock up on gas
Many generators are gas-powered and gas stations may be hard to access if the storm gets bad enough. Be sure to stock up on gas if you need it before the weather gets too bad if you need it so that you have some when it’s all over.
Secure all outdoor objects
Hurricane Lee is already exhibiting windspeeds of over 120km/h and is expected to drop around 200mm of rain. Patio furniture and outdoor fixtures will be at risk so be sure to tie them down or bring them inside if needed.
Charge your power blocks
When power does go out it could be as simple as a minor surge or it could be a major impact like downed power lines. Battery bricks can power cellphones long enough to get to a public power hub, it can also power lights and anything with a USB attachment. Make sure you charge up as many as you can just in case.
Write down emergency numbers
With power outages and limited cell phone service, it’s wise to write down any important phone numbers you may need in case you can’t use or phone or use the internet to search. Family and Friends phone numbers, emergency services, insurance, utility companies, and anyone else you may need to contact.
Be prepared to evacuate
Nova Scotia typically has evacuation shelters set up during weather emergencies and with the tragic weather this year and homes still being repaired it’s likely that more people than usual will need a safe and dry place to go. Be prepared with a go-bag tucked somewhere that makes it easy to retrieve. You may not need it but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Who wants to spend time packing as their house is flooding?