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Windstorm

Advice on preparation

Thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornados are characterized by heavy winds that can seriously damage property or cause death. To minimize the damage these weather events can cause, follow the recommendations below.

In case of a Weather Warning for High Winds follow the weather alert messages on your radio, television or on the Internet. Tie down or store indoors anything the wind might carry away, such as:

  • garden furniture
  • garbage cans or bins
  • satellite dish.

Preparing for violent winds

  • Listen to the alerts. Environment Canada keeps a 24-hr/day watch on meteorological systems.
  • Select a meeting point: when there are violent winds, the whole family may not be in the same place. Anticipate a meeting point in a safe place or some system for communicating among yourselves
  • Ensure that your battery-operated radio works
  • Have your emergency kit with you.
  • Cut the dead tree branches on your property on a regular basis. If you have trees that are close to electrical wires, contact Hydro-Québec at 1 888 385-7252.
  • Check the drainage around your house on a regular basis.

What to do if you’re at home

  • Gather the members of your family in a safe place, such as the basement, and take shelter under a solid piece of furniture. If your home does not have a basement, take shelter in a bathroom, hall or closet, or under a sold piece of furniture.
  • Distance yourselves from doors and windows.
  • Avoid taking the elevator if you are in an apartment building.
  • Evacuate your mobile home, as it could be blown away by the wind.

What to do if you’re outdoors

  • Take refuge in a building or a ditch.
  • If you are in an open area, do not lie down on the ground (increased risk of electrocution). Squat down with your feet together and tuck your head down. Distance yourself from electric and telephone wires, fences, trees and higher ground; avoid cycling.
  • If you are in a vehicle, stop the vehicle far from trees and electric wires and stay in the vehicle.

What to do if the winds weaken

  • Be careful of debris such as sheet metal, glass or any other cutting material.
  • Do not touch electrical wires, whether on the ground or hanging; they may still carry current. Contact Hydro-Québec at 1 888 385-7252.
  • Never enter a building damaged by wind.
  • Be cautious about the equality of potable water, particularly following heavy rains.

Information

Sécurité publique du Québec

Government of Canada - Your Emergency Preparedness Guide