Winter storms are one of the most dangerous natural hazards in Canada—causing more deaths annually than hurricanes, tornadoes, lightning, and floods combined. These storms can bring heavy snowfall, freezing rain, strong winds, and bitter cold, often leading to hazardous road conditions, power outages, and isolation.

While we can’t control the weather, we can be ready for it. Take time this week to review the risks, prepare your home and vehicle, and check in on your loved ones. Here’s how to stay safe when winter strikes:

🧤 Safety Tips for You and Your Family:
• Avoid unnecessary travel during snowstorms.
• Dress in layers of lightweight clothing and wear insulated, waterproof boots, mittens, and hats.
• Regularly check for frostbite, especially on ears, cheeks, hands, and feet.
• When shoveling, avoid overexertion—take frequent breaks to prevent injury.
• Use rock salt or sand to reduce ice buildup on walkways and driveways.

🏡 Winterize Your Home:
• Insulate attics, basements, and walls.
• Caulk or weatherstrip doors and windows to reduce heat loss.
• Install storm windows or use plastic window coverings.
• Service your heating system and clean chimneys annually.
• Bring pets indoors and ensure livestock have access to non-frozen drinking water.

🧰 Make Your Emergency Kits Seasonal:
• Add extra blankets, mitts, hats, and warm clothes to your home and vehicle kits.
• Stock up on non-perishable food, bottled water, flashlights, batteries, and alternative heat sources.
• Keep electronics charged and consider a backup power source.
• Place flashlights and emergency supplies in multiple locations around your home.

👵 Check on Vulnerable People:
• Stay connected with older adults, neighbours, and those with medical conditions.
• If they are unable to leave their homes, offer to help with errands or ensure they have necessary supplies to stay warm and safe.

Resources for Vulnerable Residents:

📘 Ontario Seniors: How to Be Prepared

This guide provides planning checklists, emergency kit tips, and communication strategies tailored to seniors.
🔗 View/Download the Seniors Guide (PDF)

♿ Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities

Includes advice for mobility, vision, hearing, and non-visible disabilities, plus kit checklists and contingency planning.
🔗 View/Download the Disability Guide (PDF)

📝 Vulnerable Persons Registry

Do you have a loved one who may need extra help during emergencies due to age, health, or disability? Add them to our Vulnerable Persons Registry to ensure first responders are aware of those who may require assistance during a crisis.

Vulnerable Persons Registry – Check Eligibility & Register
VPR Information Brochure
VPR Information Poster

📡 Stay Informed:
• Follow weather forecasts and warnings online.
• Visit Ontario511 for road closures and driving conditions.
• Check with your local school board for cancellations.
• Stay informed by subscribing to updates on the Municipal website and following the Municipality of Huron Shores on social media for the latest news and emergency alerts.

By preparing in advance, you can reduce the risks that winter storms pose to your family and your community. Let’s work together to stay warm, stay safe, and stay informed.

🔗 Visit ontario.ca/BePrepared for more provincial resources.

Join the Mailing List

Subscribe to the Huron Shores mailing list. Receive periodic updates and announcements.