Types of Emergencies

Flooding is the costliest emergency in Ontario. It is an annual occurrence in the Township of Selwyn and typically occurs when rivers or streams exceed their capacity, often due to heavy rainfall, spring thaw, rapid snowmelt, or ice jams. To find out if you live in an area that is prone to flooding, visit Otonabee Conservation and Trent Severn Waterway. 

If you are in an area that is prone to flooding, you can be prepared by:

• Having a household emergency plan and a 72-hour emergency kit.
• Having flood risk coverage included in your home insurance policy.
• Staying informed by listening to local TV and radio and paying attention to Otonabee Conservation and Trent-Severn Waterway condition updates.
• Putting weather protection sealant around basement windows and the base of ground-level doors.
• Installing flood shields or barriers for basement windows and doors; the tops of the shields should extend above ground level.
• Making sure downspouts extend at least 2 m (6') from your basement wall. Water should drain away from your property and neighbouring properties.
• Purchasing sandbags to prevent water from entering your home.
• Being ready to evacuate immediately if you are told to do so; flooding can change very quickly, and you may need to leave your home on short notice.

Sandbags

Sandbagging is a simple and effective way to prevent or reduce flood water damage. It provides a barrier from flood water, protecting your property and home. If you plan on using sandbags, consider the following:

• Plan where you would place sandbags before an emergency.
• Sandbags need to overlap and sandbag walls need to be two or three times wide as they are tall.
• Strategically place sandbags to divert flood waters away from entry points around your property, such as doors, garages, and basement windows. A larger perimeter will require more effort to build and maintain.

Selwyn residents can get free sand to fill their own sandbags from the Township Public Works Garage located at 1280 Centre Line, Selwyn. Please note, the Township of Selwyn does not provide sandbags to residents.

Check out this video on How to Properly Fill and Stack a Sandbag.

Power outages are one of the most common emergencies that can occur in the Township of Selwyn. Power outages can occur at any time of year and can be caused by a variety of things. While most power outages are short they can last for hours or days, depending on the cause of the outage. Be prepared for a power outage by:

• preparing an emergency kit and have extra batteries for flashlights and radios
• keep your fridge and freezer closed while the power is out to keep food cold
• if you are using a portable generator only use it outside away from windows, doors and vents
• do not use gas powered appliances to heat your home
• have something to do during a power outage, a deck of cards or boards games are good options
• unplug devices like computers, TVs etc. to avoid damage when the power comes back on
• if you are using candles do not leave them unattended
• make sure your home has working carbon monoxide detectors and that they have a battery back-up

A pandemic occurs when an infectious disease spreads through the population. In Ontario, the Ministry of Health and Long-term Care will work with local public health officials to prepared for and respond to a pandemic event. This can include monitoring conditions in Ontario and the rest of the world, developing emergency plans for health care delivery, stockpiling drugs and equipment, and administering vaccines when they become available.

Some actions that you can take to protect yourself during a pandemic are to:

• wash your hands after you have been in a public place
• maintain a safe distance from others when in public
• cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing
• avoid close contact with people who are sick
• stay home from work or school if you are feeling unwell
• follow Public Health advice and guidelines

Winter weather can be disruptive and dangerous. Freezing rain, blizzards, heavy snow, and extreme cold can make traveling or outdoor activities difficult. During severe winter weather, you can be prepared by:

• stay inside, if you do not have to go out during a winter storm stay home. Only travel if you have to
• dress in warm waterproof and windproof layers if you do have to go out
• check road and weather conditions before going out
• prepare a emergency kit for your vehicle. If you are not at home when a winter storms happens you may need extra supplies in your vehicle

Extreme heat can be dangerous. Those who work outside, the elderly, and children are particularly vulnerable and should take extra precautions during periods of extreme heat. Be prepared for extreme heat by:

•  avoid being outside for long periods of time
•  avoid high energy activities outside
•  do not leave people or animals in a closed car
•  drink plenty of water
•  wear light loose fitting clothing
•  be aware of the signs of heat related illness
• check on family and friends who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat
• check on pets often to make sure they have water and are comfortable