Saskatchewan has managed a countless number of spring and summer storms with unconceivable strengths in the past.
Consider the summer of 2010, where residents in the province faced a consortium of microbursts, hailers, twisters, gully washers, funnel clouds and plough winds. During this disastrous summer, property and auto insurance claims had extended to over $100 million 鈥� the highest on record.
Moreover, crop hail claims in the province surpassed over $100 million in 2010 鈥� another peak rate recorded in Saskatchewan during this disastrous year. 聽
Assessments from Saskatchewan Emergency Services concluded the government-run Provincial Disaster Assistance Program dealt with as many claims in 2010 as the service had during the first 30 years of the organization鈥檚 established presence.
Premier Brad Wall said, 鈥淭he one thing the province cannot control is the weather.鈥�
The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, who represent the interests of power equipment, small engine, UTV, golf car and personal transport vehicle manufacturers and suppliers, offered some important prompts on preparing for and managing storms in the springs and summers.
Minimizing the damage before storms arrive is a helpful consideration. Houseowners should trim the overhanging branches of the trees on their properties, clear any debris on the lawn and put away lawn furniture and toys.
Houseowners should assemble the power equipment they might need after the storm passes and ensure their saws, hoses, outdoor lights, radios, generators etcetera are operational. Also, have the applicable extension cords available.
Confirm there鈥檚 a supply of fresh gasoline and chargeable batteries on hand well in advance of the storm鈥檚 arrival.
Store personal safety gear, including eye protection, boots and work gloves, where they can be easily found.
Remember, when using a chainsaw after the storm, stand firmly with the weight on both feet, hold the chainsaw with both hands, never overreach or cut anything above the head and anticipate a powerful recoil.
Generators shouldn鈥檛 be placed inside a home or garage 鈥� they should be functioning outside and away from windows, doors and vents. Before refuelling, the generator should be switched off and allowed to cool down. 聽
Finally, remember to never use a centrifugal pump without water inside the pump casing.
