Staying safe during spring storm season

As we head into the warmer months, many of us are spending more time outdoors and preparing for summer activities. But late spring and early summer can also bring sudden and severe weather.

Thunderstorms, heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning are all common during this time of year and can sometimes lead to power outages or localized flooding. While Hydro Ottawa crews are always ready to respond to weather-related events, residents also play an important role in staying prepared and informed.

Emergency Preparedness Week may have wrapped up earlier this month, but emergency preparedness is something worth thinking about year-round. Public Safety Canada encourages Canadians to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies by understanding local risks, creating household plans, and assembling emergency kits.

If you’ve been meaning to create a family emergency plan but aren’t sure where to begin, Hydro Ottawa’s Emergency Preparedness webpage includes emergency kit checklists, sample plans, and practical tips to help you get started.

Before the storm: How you can prepare

When it comes to storm readiness, the Scouts and Girl Guides have the right idea: be prepared.

Hydro Ottawa monitors weather conditions closely. If a major weather event is expected in our area, we may send a Weather Watch email to customers with tips on how to prepare.

While we can’t control the weather, we can take steps to reduce its impact. Having a storm readiness plan in place can save valuable time if severe weather strikes and provide peace of mind for you and your family.

Most power outages are restored quickly, but some may last longer depending on the severity of the storm. Being prepared to manage for at least 72 hours can help reduce stress and keep your household safe during an emergency.

Consider backup power options

One way to prepare for an extended outage - especially in rural areas - is to have an additional power source available.

A backup generator can help keep essential appliances running, such as refrigerators, lights, and device chargers. Generators come in a variety of sizes and price ranges depending on the power you need.

If you use a generator, remember:

• Generators must always be used outdoors and be installed by a licensed professional
• Never operate a portable generator inside your home or garage
• Exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide and can be dangerous

Protect your home from flooding

A battery-powered sump pump is another helpful tool, particularly if your home has a basement that may be vulnerable during heavy rain.

Battery backup pumps can help prevent flooding during short outages. However, for outages lasting longer than a day or two, a generator may provide additional protection.

If flooding does occur, never enter a flooded basement unless you are certain the electricity has been disconnected.

During the storm: Make safety your priority

If a severe storm warning is issued, your first priority should always be finding safe shelter.

Lightning is one of the most common dangers associated with spring and summer storms. If you see lightning or hear thunder:

• Move indoors immediately
• Close all windows and doors
• Stay away from electrical appliances and plumbing
• If safe to do so, secure loose outdoor objects that could blow away

If you’re caught driving during a storm, it’s safest to pull over and wait until conditions improve.

If you must stop your vehicle:

• Park safely off the road
• Avoid parking near trees, poles, or power lines
• Stay inside your vehicle if power lines are nearby

After the storm: How you can help

If an outage occurs in your area and you don’t see it listed on our outage map, the best thing you can do is report it. This helps our crews identify the full extent of outages and respond more quickly.

You can report an outage by:

• Submitting it online through your MyAccount portal
• Submitting through the Hydro Ottawa mobile app
• Texting “OUT” to PWROUT  (797688)
• Calling our 24/7 outage line as a last resort: (613) 738-0188

If Hydro Ottawa crews are working in your neighbourhood, please help keep everyone safe by following these guidelines:

• Keep a safe distance from work areas and equipment
• Follow all posted signage and directions from workers
• Ask for assistance if you are unsure where it is safe to walk
• Drive carefully and avoid work zones whenever possible

Our crews work around the clock during storms to restore power safely and as quickly as possible.

Be ready for the unexpected

Storms and severe weather can happen at any time during the spring and summer months. Taking time now to review your emergency plan and assemble an emergency kit that can support your household for at least 72 hours can make a big difference during an outage or emergency.

Preparedness starts at home - and a little planning today can help keep your family safe throughout the season.