(File photo/northeastNOW Staff)

By Cam Lee

Severe weather tips

Tips on how to stay safe during severe summer weather

Jun 29, 2020 | 8:00 AM

Summer weather in Saskatchewan can be volatile and it’s important to plan ahead for any possibility.

Melfort Ambulance manager Wayne Therres told northeastNOW that a plan of action can mean the difference between life and death.

Therres said the first step is to have an emergency survival kit in your home.

“Simple things like having a battery-operated flashlight and radio, water, blankets, and a list of your medications and to know where those medications are; so you can quickly put it into a kit that you can take with you if you have to leave your home in a hurry,” Therres said.

Having a contact list in that container is important as well, so emergency providers or medical staff can contact family members.

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Similar items should be stocked in your vehicle, according to Therres.

Tornadoes are a common sight across the Prairies in the summer, and there are steps you can take to minimize your risks in the event of this severe weather event. Therres said it’s important to get into a basement or another low-lying level in your home.

“Stay away from doors and windows, so that if anything is flying around in there, you’re protected that way,” Therres said. “Try not to be out in the open. Make sure that you have yourself protected and that you know where everybody is in your family.”

There is also a risk of flash floods during a severe summer weather event. Therres said during a flood, you do the opposite of what you would do during a tornado.

“You want to get to high ground,” Therres said.

During a lightning storm, it’s also important to stay away from doors and windows, and anything metal. Therres says appliances should be unplugged and shut off, and don’t use a landline telephone.

If you’re outside during a lightning storm, Therres recommended seeking shelter in a building or a low-lying area. Try not to stay in the open, and keep away from telephone lines, power lines, and trees.

He said if you’re in a vehicle when lightning is striking near you, make sure it is away from anything that could fall on you, and stop the vehicle.

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cam.lee@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @camlee1974