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Blizzards
Blizzards are severe winter storms characterized by the following: snow
or blowing snow with winds of 40 km/hr or more, visibility reduced to
less than one km. in snow and/or blowing snow, windchill of -25 or colder.
All of the above conditions are expected to last for four hours or more
to be officially classified as a blizzard. However, caution should be
exercised if any of these conditions exist, regardless of their duration.
If a blizzard warning is issued
for your area, take the following precautions:
- MAINTAIN A GOOD SUPPLY OF HEATING FUEL AND FOOD. If you've been warned
about a blizzard early enough, stock up on food and fuel. Include food
that requires no preparation in case the power goes off.
- ENSURE ANIMALS ARE SHELTERED, and provide them with plenty of food
and water before the storm reaches full force.
- DON'T GO OUTSIDE. You may lose your way in the blinding snow. If you
must go out, firmly tie one end of a long rope to your house to provide
a way back, and tie the rest of the rope to the buildings you must visit.
Keep a tight grip on it whenever you walk outside.
- WAIT OUT THE STORM INDOORS. Blizzards may last for days at a time.
- BE PREPARED IN CASE OF POWER FAILURE. Check battery powered equipment,
flashlights, and portable radios before the storm hits. (See power failure
precautions).
- BE ALERT FOR FIRE HAZARDS due to overheated stoves, fireplaces, heaters
or furnaces.
- USE CAUTION SHOVELLING after the storm. It is extremely hard work
for those in less than excellent physical condition, and can even bring
on a heart attack.
- KEEP AN ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS ON HAND, in case you
run out during the storm.
MORE
:
Read up on past Alberta blizzards
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