Emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s important to be prepared. Severe winter weather can bring heavy snowfall, freezing rain and extreme cold to our community. You can ensure you’re winter-ready by following three easy steps:

   Step one: Know the risks

Learn about weather conditions and hazards that could lead to an emergency this winter. This includes snow, ice and low temperatures, as well as related issues like power outages and dangerous driving conditions. Check the Emergency Alerts and Public Information page to stay informed about potential emergencies in Halton and Ontario’s Travel Information (external link) page for winter road closures before leaving our community. You can also sign up for cold warnings from Halton Region, so you can plan ahead and check in on loved ones.

   Step two: Make a plan

Meet with your family to decide how everyone will respond in emergency situations. In your plan, consider who to contact, where exits are located in your home or apartment building, and what you would do if severe weather leaves you without running water or power. You can also note nearby friends and family or the evacuation centre in your community in case you need to leave your home.

   Step three: Get a kit

Getting or making an emergency kit that contains essential supplies, including food and water, can ensure that you, your family and your pets can stay healthy for at least 72 hours. An emergency kit should also include essentials like a first-aid kit, prescription medication, a flashlight and a crank/battery-powered radio. In the winter months, you should also prepare a kit for your car stocked with non-perishable foods, warm clothing and blankets.

Please remember to check in on family, friends and neighbours who live alone or may require assistance during severe winter weather and other emergencies.

To learn more about you can prepare for emergencies this winter or any time of year, visit the Preparing for Emergencies page on halton.ca. 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.