Prepare Your Property for an Emergency
Small Steps Today Can Prevent Big Problems Tomorrow
Severe weather, power outages, flooding, high winds, winter storms, and other emergencies can happen at any time. Taking proactive steps to prepare your property can reduce damage, improve safety, and help your household recover more quickly when the unexpected occurs.
Protect Your Home From Water Damage
Water is one of the most common causes of property damage. Regular maintenance can help keep water away from your home.
- Clean eavestroughs and gutters each spring and fall.
- Ensure downspouts discharge at least 2 metres (6 feet) away from your home's foundation.
- Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles.
- Check around windows and doors for cracks or gaps that could allow water to enter.
- Make sure sump pumps are functioning properly and consider a battery backup system.
- Confirm catch basins, culverts, and drainage ditches near your property remain clear of debris.
- Keep valuables and important documents stored above potential flood levels.
Reduce Wind and Storm Damage
Strong winds can quickly turn loose objects into hazards.
- Remove dead or damaged tree branches that could fall during a storm.
- Regularly inspect trees around your home for signs of disease or instability.
- Secure outdoor furniture, trampolines, BBQs, and seasonal decorations.
- Store loose items in a garage, shed, or other secure location when severe weather is forecast.
- Check fences, sheds, and other structures for loose boards, fasteners, or damage.
Prepare for Power Outages
Extended power outages are common during severe weather events.
- Test generators according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Never operate generators indoors or near windows, doors, or air intakes.
- Charge power banks and backup batteries regularly.
- Keep flashlights accessible and store extra batteries in a known location.
- Consider alternative heating options if your primary heat source relies on electricity.
- Know how to manually operate garage doors and other critical systems.
Check Your Life-Safety Equipment
Early warning can save lives during an emergency.
Smoke Alarms
- Test smoke alarms monthly.
- Replace batteries at least once per year unless equipped with long-life batteries.
- Replace smoke alarms according to manufacturer recommendations, typically every 10 years.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
- Test monthly.
- Replace batteries as required.
- Ensure alarms are installed outside sleeping areas and near fuel-burning appliances.
Fire Extinguishers
- Check pressure gauges regularly.
- Ensure extinguishers are accessible and not expired.
- Make sure household members know how to use them safely.
Create Defensible Space Around Your Property
Maintaining your yard can reduce fire risk and improve access for emergency responders.
- Remove dead leaves, brush, and yard waste.
- Trim grass and vegetation around structures.
- Keep firewood piles away from buildings.
- Clear access routes so emergency vehicles can easily reach your property.
- Ensure your civic address number is visible from the road day and night.
Winter Readiness
- Service furnaces and wood stoves annually.
- Inspect chimneys and vents.
- Stock salt, sand, or gravel before winter begins.
- Keep walkways and exits clear of snow and ice.
- Ensure outdoor vents remain free from snow accumulation.
- Review emergency heating plans before the winter season.
Know Your Utilities
Every household should know how to quickly shut off critical utilities if necessary.
- Learn where water, electricity, and natural gas shut-offs are located.
- Label shut-off points if needed.
- Ensure responsible household members understand when and how to use them safely.
Make Preparedness Part of Your Routine
A good habit is to perform a property preparedness check twice a year:
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Trim trees and remove debris
- Check your emergency kit and supplies
- Inspect your sump pump and drainage systems
- Review your family emergency plan
- Review your home insurance coverage and emergency contact lists
A little maintenance today can help protect your home, your family, and your property when emergencies occur.
Did You Know?
Its a great idea to combine seasonal home maintenance with emergency preparedness activities. When you change clocks in the spring and fall, it's a great reminder to test alarms, review emergency supplies, and inspect your property for seasonal risks.