Just For Kids

Blizzards

Blizzards are severe winter storms characterized by the following: snow or blowing snow with winds of 40 km/hr or more, visibility reduced to less than one km. in snow and/or blowing snow, windchill of -25 or colder. All of the above conditions are expected to last for four hours or more to be officially classified as a blizzard. However, caution should be exercised if any of these conditions exist, regardless of their duration.

If a blizzard warning is issued for your area, take the following precautions:

• MAINTAIN A GOOD SUPPLY OF HEATING FUEL AND FOOD. If you've been warned about a blizzard early enough, stock up on food and fuel. Include food that requires no preparation in case the power goes off.
  
  
• ENSURE ANIMALS ARE SHELTERED, and provide them with plenty of food and water before the storm reaches full force.
  
  
• DON'T GO OUTSIDE. You may lose your way in the blinding snow. If you must go out, firmly tie one end of a long rope to your house to provide a way back, and tie the rest of the rope to the buildings you must visit. Keep a tight grip on it whenever you walk outside.
  
  
• WAIT OUT THE STORM INDOORS. Blizzards may last for days at a time.
  
  
• BE PREPARED IN CASE OF POWER FAILURE. Check battery powered equipment, flashlights, and portable radios before the storm hits. (See power failure precautions).
  
  
• BE ALERT FOR FIRE HAZARDS due to overheated stoves, fireplaces, heaters or furnaces.
  
  
• USE CAUTION SHOVELLING after the storm. It is extremely hard work for those in less than excellent physical condition, and can even bring on a heart attack.
  
  
• KEEP AN ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS ON HAND, in case you run out during the storm.
  

MORE: Read up on past Alberta blizzards