We know it’s only November and there’s another month before winter arrives, but it’s never too early to be ready for extreme weather. Remember the recent wind and rain storm that hit Metro Vancouver? This inspires our Tip #3…

BE PREPARED FOR ANYTHING

As we experienced not too long ago, the weather can surprise us with its ferocity. And, have you heard? British Columbia is overdue for an earthquake. Very suddenly, when nature strikes, you may be confined to your home for longer than anticipated, sometimes without power.

Here are a few tips to keep you comfortable and safe in your home:

1. Stay stocked with non-perishable food and water. The general guideline is to store a 72-hour supply for each household member.
2. Keep flashlights easily accessible and make sure extra batteries are close by. Candles and lanterns are great as well to light up your room for longer periods – stock up on lighters or matches too.
3. Purchase a first-aid kit. You can usually find one at your local drug store, such as London Drugs or Rexall.
4. Store a battery-powered or hand-crank radio with your supplies to stay up-to-date on any emergency bulletins. Check out Canadian Tire or Home Depot for options.
5. Keep an external battery pack charged for your cell phone.
6. If the power is out, ATMs may be down. Keep extra cash with your emergency supplies.
7. Have you memorized important phone numbers? Doesn’t seem necessary with a contact list at hand, does it. Best to write down the numbers for family and close friends, just in case.
8. To maximize warmth in case you lose heating, make sure the caulking around your windows and doors is maintained. Read our Tip #1 for a how-to on caulking.
9. And if you really want to be prepared for any power loss, invest in a generator.

Click HERE for a list from the Canadian Red Cross outlining more items to keep in your emergency kit.

Image via Shutterstock.