Stay ahead of the winter weather

Winter safety tips from Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service 

Winter is the perfect time of year to stay cozy indoors, but it’s still important to keep safety top of mind. That’s why Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service is providing essential tips to keep you and your family safe throughout the snowy season. 

Be aware of carbon monoxide risks

Regularly clear snow and ice one metre around all exterior vents and exhaust pipes from your dryer, furnace, stove, fireplace and other gas-burning appliances to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. 

Remember to test your CO alarms monthly and replace them after the expiry date, every five to 10 years, as clearly marked on the unit. As of Jan. 1, residences with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage are required to have CO alarms on every level of the home and outside all sleeping areas under the Ontario Fire Code.

Often referred to as the “silent killer,” CO is an invisible, tasteless and odourless gas that can cause serious illness and even be deadly. Exposure to CO can cause flu-like symptoms such as headaches, nausea and dizziness, burning eyes, confusion, drowsiness, loss of consciousness and death. If you or others in your household or building experience any of these symptoms, go outdoors and call 9-1-1 immediately.

For more CO safety tips, visit the City’s Fire Safety and Prevention webpage. 

Prepare your home for power outages

Freezing rain, ice storms and high winds can damage powerlines and equipment, and cause power outages. Cold snaps can also overload the electric power system. If the power goes out, check with Vaughan’s local power provider, Alectra Utilities, for more information by calling 1-833-ALECTRA (1-833-253-2872) or visiting alectrautilities.com. 

During a power outage, turn off all non-essential appliances and unplug electronic equipment like TVs and computers. Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed – a full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours if the door remains closed. Turn off all lights except for one to let you know when power is restored and use flashlights if it’s dark. Use a battery-powered or crank radio to listen for information on the outage and advice from authorities. 

Plan ahead by reviewing the power outage checklist in the Vaughan Emergency Preparedness Plan (PDF). Stay up-to-date during a power outage by tuning into local radio stations, following the City’s corporate social media channels and frequently checking vaughan.ca. 

Ensure safe operation of generators

If you have a generator, always read and follow the owner’s manual before operating. Generator exhaust contains CO and using one indoors is deadly – never operate them inside your home, garage or any enclosed area, even if the doors and windows are open. Keep generators outdoors on a dry, level surface, far away from windows, doors and vents. 

Keep warm in winter storms

Winter storms typically involve a combination of heavy snowfall, cold temperatures and high winds. This can result in whiteouts and large amounts of drifting and blowing snow. During the winter, use online tools to regularly check for weather-related information, including local weather forecasts and Vaughan’s winter maintenance operations webpage. 

It’s recommended to stay inside during extremely cold weather. If you have to go outside, wear layers of lightweight clothing, mittens and a hat that covers your ears. Use waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry, and to prevent slipping on ice and snow. Regularly check for signs of frostbite such as numbness or white areas on the face and body. 

Prepare your vehicle for an emergency

During periods of winter weather, like heavy snow, freezing rain or strong winds, avoid unnecessary travel when possible. If you have to go out, keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full and have extra washer fluid available. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle – if you get trapped inside, stay calm. Run the engine for 10 minutes every half hour to keep warm and make sure the exhaust is not blocked by snow. Open the window slightly when running the engine and stay in the vehicle.

Use the vehicle emergency kit checklist from the Vaughan Emergency Preparedness Plan (PDF) to create your own kit.

For more safety information and tips, visit vaughan.ca/EmergencyPlanning. 

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