In Alberta, the thunderstorm season begins in May and lasts until mid-October; our weather is notable for quickly changing. According to Environment Canada, there are nine or 10 lightning deaths and 164 lightning-related injuries each year across Canada.
In the event of an impending thunderstorm, there are precautions you can take to protect yourself and your property:
- If you are outdoors, take shelter in low-lying areas immediately. Watch out for any low-lying areas that could potentially flood.
- Be aware not to stand or park near tall objects, such as trees, poles, or wires that could topple.
- Unplug all electronics and stay indoors away from appliances and electronic equipment. Use battery-operated or cordless devices only.
- Remain in your safe location for at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder is heard before resuming your activities.
- If you are in a vehicle during a lightning storm and see a downed power line, call 9-1-1 or Battle River Power Coop at 1.877.428.3972.
- If you encounter someone who has been struck by lightning, do not attempt to move them. Immediately call 9-1-1 and if breathing has stopped, administer CPR.
Battle River Power Coop has these power outage tips to help keep you safe during storm season:
- Download our “Battle River Power Outage” mobile app to view and report outages.
- Make sure your contact information is up to date in our records.
- Use surge protectors on your electronics.
- If the problem is with your breaker, make sure you know the location of your main breaker.
- Always have an Emergency Kit ready in case your power is out for an extended period.
- Put your mobile phone on battery-saving mode and use a backup portable power supply if you need to charge.
- Register for Alberta Emergency Alerts.
If you see a downed line, stay 10 meters away and call 1.877.428.3972 and 9-1-1.
Watch our informational video about Summer Storms, https://youtu.be/_qup8aSkNr0.
Remember – when thunder ROARS, go INDOORS!