MONTREAL – The Quebec government is on high alert in anticipation of Hurricane Sandy.
Quebec’s Minister of Public Security, Stéphane Bergeron, has asked civil security officials to work with its partners and municipal authorities to take all possible measures in order to be ready to respond if Hurricane Sandy touches ground in Quebec.
“The Quebec government is closely following the development of hurricane Sandy and is working to be ready should this weather event to cause damage in Quebec,” said Minister Bergeron.
Quebec civil security officials are responsible for coordinating government action in emergency situations and for passing on important information concerning the safety of Quebecers.
The Canadian Hurricane Centre reports that the storm is expected to make landfall in New Jersey on Monday night, and expects the so-called “superstorm” to hit parts of southern and eastern Ontario and western Quebec, with potentially damaging winds up to 100 kilometres per hour.
“The rain will pick up in intensity late Monday, with winds also increasing and peaking very early Tuesday morning,” said Global News meteorologist Anthony Farnell.
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“Additional rainfall amounts of 50-75 millimetres shouldn’t cause a severe flood situation, but basement flooding and some river flooding is expected.”
Quebecers need to be prepared
According to Minister Bergeron, Quebecers play an important role in their own safety and need to be prepared for the hurricane.
“To be able to deal with an emergency situation, all Quebec families should be prepared,” said Bergeron.
“People need to have an emergency kit containing enough items and food for their immediate needs.”
Emergency kit
The Quebec government advises that an emergency kit should include:
– drinking water
– non-perishable food
– a manual can opener
– a battery-powered radio
– a flashlight
– extra batteries
– a first aid kit
The kit should be stored in an accessible location and be able to be transported easily in case of evacuation.
Government officials also noted that with a forecast of strong winds, it is recommended to securely attach anything that could be blown away, such as garden furniture, barbecues, garbage bins and dishes.
They also suggest double checking outdoor structures like temporary car shelters. Ensuring that objects are securely attached could avoid dangerous situations and injuries.
“If a situation warrants it, Quebec authorities will provide instructions,” Bergeron said.
“Listen to local media to determine the status of the situation and any measures to be taken. Be careful and plan ahead.”
If you are required to evacuate, call 511 to check road conditions.
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