Skip Navigation

Chair's Corner

Breadcrumbs

Regional Chair Gary Carr: Ensure you’re prepared for emergencies this winter

Dec 02, 2022

Emergencies can happen at any time and being prepared can help protect you, your household and the community. Plan ahead and be prepared for severe weather conditions or hazards this winter by following these steps:

   Step one: Know the risks
 

Learn about extreme weather conditions and hazards that could lead to an emergency this winter. Some of the top winter risks in Halton region include freezing rain, ice storms, heavy snow and extreme temperatures. It’s important you and your household know what the risks are, so you can be better prepared.

Sign up for cold warnings from Halton Region to plan ahead and check in on loved ones who may require assistance. Visit the Emergency Alerts and Public Information page to stay informed about potential emergencies in Halton and check Ontario’s Travel Information (external link) page for winter road closures if you are traveling outside of the region.

   Step two: Make a plan

Whether it’s for your household, the workplace or loved ones that need assistance, it’s important that you have a plan in place to know how to respond if an emergency takes place. Consider an escape plan and emergency exits, and ensure you have food and water stored for 72 hours.

Visit our Preparing for Emergencies Information page for more details on the different types of plans you can have in place and considerations you should be mindful of.

   Step three: Get a kit

Do you have an emergency kit on hand? This kit should contain everything you need to keep yourself, your household and your pets safe during an emergency for at least 72 hours. Your emergency kit should include food and water, medications, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, warm clothing and blankets. Be sure to prepare a separate kit for your car, containing items that can help you stay safe during emergencies on the road. The Preparing for Emergencies Information page on halton.ca also contains information about different types of emergency kits, where you can get them and what you should have on hand.

This holiday season, I encourage you to check in on family, friends and neighbours who live alone or may require assistance during severe winter weather and other emergencies.

By planning ahead to protect ourselves and our community, we help to keep Halton a great place to live, work, raise a family and retire.

TOP