After multiple confirmed tornadoes in eastern Saskatchewan Sunday, emergency officials had some advice for people who encounter a twister like those in the Naicam, Sask. area.
Preparation for any emergency event is crucial, including the creation of a home emergency prep kit. Its contents should include things like medication, bottled water and for at least 72 hours, according to provincial officials at a news conference in May.
“One of the biggest things we like to tell people is ‘are you prepared to be notified?'” said Deb Davies, emergency measures coordinator with the City of Saskatoon.
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You can sign up for the city’s alert system here.
Once the tornado warning was issued Sunday, SaskAlert, a new TV and radio broadcast, went out. It’s designed to give emergency information about critical events.
If a tornado is looming, officials urge people to take cover.
“There are experts out there capturing that footage. Let’s have a look at that after the fact. Let’s make sure we keep ourselves and our families safe,” Davies said.
The best-case scenario is to seek shelter, preferably in a basement. If that’s not possible, find a room away from windows, Davies said.
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Environment Canada recommends not travelling if a tornado is imminent.
“If you are in your car, open the windows slightly and park off the road with your brakes set, away from tall objects and power lines. Do not leave your car if there are downed lines nearby,” according to the Environment Canada website.
“In the event of a tornado, abandon your vehicle and move at a right angle to the storm’s path,” the website said.
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If there aren’t any buildings nearby, officials recommend finding shelter in a low-lying area like a ditch and laying down.