JUNE 20
2007

Civil Defence advises public to prepare for future winter storms

A year ago, Canterbury was hit with one of its worst winter snow storms, with many rural properties without electricity for weeks on end. With more cold southerlies predicted by Metservice, the Canterbury Emergency Management Office is encouraging people to prepare for winter storms.

Jon Mitchell, acting Civil Defence Emergency Management Office manager, said that last year many areas around South Canterbury went without power for more than ten days. Important lessons were learned including the need to stock up on basic emergency supplies like radios, batteries, torches, food, and water in case this winter brings a repeat of last year’s big snow.

“We learned a lot of important lessons last year and we are reminding people that they should be preparing now in case we have another heavy snowfall,” he said.

One big lesson learned from last year’s snow, was the need for car chargers for cell phones and at least one phone at home that doesn’t rely on electricity to work, Mr Mitchell said. Alternative sources of heating and cooking are also recommended, such as gas heaters and barbeques with spare gas bottles.

Civil Defence Emergency Management Group recommends schools, businesses, and other organisations plan for winter conditions, to reduce disruptions to services and the community.

For more information, go to the www.getthru.govt.nz

ENDS

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