Extreme Weather

During summer, extreme weather can occur at any time causing severe safety issues. Ensure you are prepared for extreme winds, tornados and extreme heat.

Wind Storms and Tornados

A tornado or wind storm can occur after a thunderstorm, heavy rainfall or hail from a green, yellow or black coloured sky. Seek shelter immediately if a tornado warning has been issued or any warning signs of a tornado appear.

Safety indoors:

• Find shelter underground in a basement or safe room
• If you do not have a basement, take cover in the centre of the room on the lowest level as far away as possible from corners, windows, doors and exterior walls
• Hide under a heavy piece of furniture and position your head and neck under your arms for protection
• Do not go near or open any windows

Safety outdoors:

• Take cover inside as soon as you notice the weather change
• If you are unable to seek shelter indoors, lie flat in a ditch covering your head with your hands
• Do not seek refuge under an overpass or bridge, you are safest in a low, flat area

Road closures and power failure can occur during an extreme weather emergency. Make sure your emergency survival kit can last you and your family up to three days.

Extreme Heat

Everyone is at risk from heat, especially older adults, infants and young children, people who work or exercise in the heat and those with certain medical conditions. Extreme heat can cause a number of heat related illnesses such as heat stroke and exhaustion. Symptoms may include dizziness, vomiting, rapid heartbeat and extreme dehydration. The Brant County Health Unit will issue an Extreme Heat Alert when any of the following weather conditions occur in the Brant County area:

• Humidex is likely to reach 40°C or higher
• Humidex is likely to reach 36°C or higher with a Smog Alert

If you are someone you know is experiencing any of the above symptoms, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency that requires urgent assistance. Please make a point to check on friends, family and neighbours frequently during heat events, and even after the weather cools off, as they may still feel negative health impacts of the heat.  

Prevention and Treatment:

• Seek shelter in a cool shaded place, under a tree or indoors
• Sit or lie down and apply to cool water to your face
• Drink water every fifteen to twenty minutes
• Always pack extra water, sunscreen lotion and UVA or UVB protected sunglasses
• Never leave a child or pet in a parked vehicle
• Avoid extreme physical activity outdoors
• Wear a hat and loose fitting clothing

The City of Brantford offers many places to stay cool this summer. Visit the City’s swimming pools and splash pads or seek shelter at one of our Public Library Branches or Public Service Buildings.

Prevention begins with an emergency preparedness plan. Ensure you and all your family members know what to do in the event of an emergency. Learn more about emergency preparedness so that you have a plan in place to protect you and your loved ones.