The weather cocktail hitting Quebec may affect travel but also trading at home. Here are five tips to follow in the event of an ice storm:
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• Also read: IN PICTURES | Fallen trees and torn electrical cables due to the ice
1. Watch your movements.
If you must leave your home, be careful both on the streets and sidewalks. The road could be slippery due to freezing rain. It is important that you adapt your driving style to the road conditions.
It may also be a good idea to bring emergency gear – shovel, blankets, water, food, charged cell phone, emergency car tools, etc. – in the event of an unplanned stop on the road.
2. Don’t de-ice your roof.
Of course, it is recommended not to climb onto the roof of a house to remove ice buildup, as a fall can result in serious injury or even death.
In addition, the ice should not take too long to melt as the temperature rises.
3. Make sure your loved ones who live alone are okay.
It is recommended to make a call to your loved ones who live alone or in remote areas to make sure they are safe.
According to the Outaouais Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS), a person is more vulnerable during an ice storm if they are 65 or older, have limited mobility, work outdoors, or lack personal resources (person experiencing homelessness or isolation ). ).
4. Be prepared for a power outage.
It’s always a good idea to have blankets, lamps or candles, and a battery operated radio handy to keep you warm and bright in the event of a power outage.
5. Beware of carbon monoxide
If you must use an appliance that burns fuel, beware of carbon monoxide, an odorless and invisible poisonous gas. “Avoid using a device designed for outdoor use indoors and install your generator at least 7 meters from the house,” said the CISSS de l’Outaouais.
A working, battery-powered carbon monoxide detector is also important.