Ontario residents are affected by various types of severe weather both seasonally, and all year round. Severe weather includes storms, blizzards, hurricanes, and prolonged periods of extreme temperature. Monitor the radio and television stations for Environment Canada weather statements.

Visit Ontario Get Prepared for a detailed description of weather hazards and their associated risks.

Tips:

Storms

  • if possible, take shelter in a building and stay indoors
  • if you have time, secure items that might be blown around or torn loose, such as lawn furniture
  • if you are driving, stop your car away from trees or power lines
  • if there is hail, stay away from windows, glass doors, and sky lights
  • if you are outside, crouch in the "leap frog" position to minimize ground contact, and avoid being under any trees. If there is lightning and you cannot get inside, lie in a depressed area such as a ditch or culvert

Hurricanes

  • try to stay inside, hurricane winds can quickly change in opposite direction and grow stronger
  • avoid using a cordless phone and stay away from items that conduct electricity
  • if you are outside, do not go to the shore to watch the storm, or head for shore immediately if you are out on the water

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat can be dangerous for the elderly, people with disabilities and children, particularly infants. Monitor radio and television stations for extreme heart alerts. The City will issue a public notice if any municipal facilities have been designated as cooling centres.

Tips during extreme heat:

  • drink more fluids (avoid high sugar and alcoholic beverages), regardless of your activity level. Drink water every 15 to 20 minutes even if you aren't thirsty.
  • stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall, public library, or cooling station
  • never leave people or pets in a closed vehicle for a long period of time
  • if you are indoors, stay on lower floors if there is no air conditioning
  • check regularly on: Infants and young children, people aged 65 or older, people who have a mental illness, those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure