Civil Defence has issued a list of things people can do to minimise risk to themselves and their families, when the big chill hits.
- Avoid leaving home unless absolutely necessary when a snow warning is out.
- If you must travel ensure you have snow chains, sleeping bags, warm clothing and essential emergency items.
- At home, check fuel supplies for woodburners, gas heaters, barbeques and generators.
- Bring pets inside.
- If you are caught in your car or truck in a snowstorm, stay in the vehicle. Run the engine every 10 minutes to keep warm.
- Drink fluids to avoid dehydration. Open the window a little to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Make yourself visible to rescuers by tying a bright-coloured cloth to your radio aerial or door and keeping the inside light on.
- Work out a household emergency plan before the storm hits
- Assemble and maintain an Emergency Survival Items kit for your home as well as a portable getaway kit.
- Prepare your property for high winds by securing large heavy objects, or removing items which can become deadly or damaging missiles. Get your roof checked regularly to make sure it is secure. List items that may need to be secured or moved indoors when strong winds are forecast.
- Keep materials at hand for repairing windows – tarpaulins, boards and duct tape.
- If you are renovating or building, make sure all work complies with the New Zealand building code, which has specific standards to minimise storm damage..
- When a storm struck, people should listen for updates on local radio stations where authorities would be broadcasting advice.
- Put your household emergency plan into action and check your getaway kit in case you have to leave in a hurry.
- Secure, or move indoors, all items that could get blown about and cause harm in strong winds.
- Close windows, external and internal doors. Pull curtains and drapes over unprotected glass areas to prevent injury from shattered or flying glass.
- If the wind becomes destructive, stay away from doors and windows and shelter further inside the house.
- Water supplies can be affected so store drinking water in containers and fill bathtubs and sinks with water.
- Don’t walk around outside and avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
- Power cuts are possible in severe weather. Unplug small appliances which may be affected by electrical power surges.
- If power is lost unplug major appliances to reduce the power surge and possible damage when power is restored.
- Bring pets inside. If you have to evacuate, take your pets with you.
Source:Red Cross homepage, edited
