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.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!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!