Posted on: March 7, 2024 | Return to News
Welcome to our Winter Safety Information, where we provide essential tips and information to help you navigate the challenges of winter weather. Whether you’re facing storm surges, power outages, or the hazards of melting snow and ice, being prepared is key to ensuring the safety of yourself and your loved ones.
In times of emergency, it’s crucial to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Equip yourself with a Basic Emergency Kit that includes water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a radio, a first aid kit, and more. Familiarize yourself with the checklist below to ensure you have everything you need.
Effective Dates: December 1 to April 30
Winter sees an increased risk of home fires. In fact, half of all home heating fires occur during December, January, and February. While you’re keeping warm this winter, it’s essential to be fire-smart.
Fire Hydrants: In our town, we prioritize snow clearing operations for roads and sidewalks during winter storms. However, there are around 1,300 fire hydrants in the Town of Conception Bay South. We kindly request that residents assist us by keeping the fire hydrants near their homes accessible. You are both permitted and encouraged to clear fire hydrant areas. In emergencies, every second counts.
During heavy snowfall, the Town’s focus is on the clearing of collector roads and supporting emergency services. Roads are cleared in a priority sequence, determined by street classification. If you would like to learn more about the Town’s winter control operations, please visit the following link: www.conceptionbaysouth.ca/streets-and-roads/snow-clearing
Potholes: Potholes can develop quickly in freezing temperatures. Help us identify and prioritize them for repair by visiting Report a Pothole.
Prepare for storm surges by checking your property for flood vulnerabilities, learning to turn off utilities, and storing important documents safely. Stay informed about potential evacuations and keep your emergency kit portable for quick access.
Heavy rain and melting snow can lead to excess water on roads and properties. Take preventive measures by removing excess snow, clearing foundations, and ensuring proper drainage. Please drive and walk cautiously during icy conditions.
Power outages are often caused by freezing rain, sleet storms and/or high winds that damage power lines and equipment. Cold snaps or heat waves can also overload the electric power system. During a power outage, you may be left without heating/air conditioning, lighting, hot water, or even running water. If you only have a cordless phone, you will also be left without phone service. You can greatly lessen the impact of a power outage by taking the time to prepare in advance. Learn how to prepare for blackouts here.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is known as the “silent killer” because it is an invisible, tasteless, and odourless gas that can be deadly. CO is produced when fuels such as propane, gasoline, natural gas, heating oil, or wood do not burn completely in fuel-burning appliances and devices. Learn more about CO safety here.
For more information about being prepared for an emergency, please visit the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Services Division.