Severe Weather Preparedness

Severe weather – winter storms, thunderstorms, hail, high winds or heavy rain – can happen at any time. Severe weather is often accompanied by power outages, so ensure you’re equipped to be on your own for at least three days with an emergency kit.

Here are a few additional tips to prepare for severe weather:

• Have a battery-operated radio and listen to your local station for warnings, advice and instructions.
• Stow flashlights around the house and remember to have extra batteries on hand.
• Fireplaces, woodstoves, barbecues and camp stoves can be used for emergency cooking, just don’t use the last two indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide build-up.
• Inspect your chimney or flue to help prevent structural fires and ensure smoke, carbon monoxide and other potentially harmful gases are properly vented.
• Winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, weather-stripping doors and windows, clearing rain gutters and removing tree branches that could fall during strong winds.

Winter Storms

During snow and ice events, both the City and residents have certain responsibilities. These responsibilities are outlined and some tips to help maintain safety are available at chilliwack.com/winter.

Power Outages

Stay back at least 10 metres from downed power lines. If you encounter a fallen power line, call 9-1-1 – it is an emergency. Remember that ice, branches or power lines can continue to break and fall for several hours after a storm ends.

• Plan for isolation in your home.
• Consider a safe backup heating system.
• Ensure that you have enough heating fuel for fire places or wood burning stoves.
• Have working smoke alarms, fire extinguishers and sprinklers.
• Have a fire escape plan in place.

For more information on preparing for and safety during a power outage, visit BCHydro and FortisBC.