Winter Safety Tips
Ice and snowstorms, high winds and blizzards are all regular occurrences that can lead to dangerous situations during a Manitoba winter.
- What to do during a power outage.
- Natural gas safety and disruption information.
- Carbon monoxide safety at home.
- Snowmobiling safety.
More tips:
Winter storm safety
A winter storm can strike quickly, making proper planning a must. Follow these steps to keep you and your family warm and comfortable:
Storm preparation
Anticipate possible power failures and prepare these supplies in advance:
- Battery-operated radio.
- Flashlights.
- Spare batteries (your radio and flashlights should use the same size batteries).
- Candles and matches.
- Non-perishable food (food that can be eaten without cooking, and stored without refrigeration).
- Water.
- Medical supplies and medicines.
- Plumbing antifreeze.
- Alternative heat source such as a wood stove or fireplace.
- Prepare a plan for evacuating to a suitable location in the event of a prolonged power disruption. Keep your vehicle prepared for winter conditions (maintained, with a full fuel tank and a winter survival kit).
- Fuel burning equipment that is not connected to a chimney or vent should not be used indoors.
- Barbeques and fuel heaters should not be used indoors.
- Many appliances generate dangerous levels of CO very quickly. Install a carbon monoxide detector and test it regularly to ensure it is working properly.
Weathering the storm
If your home heating system fails due to a power outage, take these precautions:
- Call 1-888-MBHYDRO to report the outage.
- Stay calm; your house will remain warm for several hours.
- Avoid opening doors.
- If you have an alternate heat source, use it before the house cools. Maintain adequate ventilation.
- Natural gas furnaces do not have to be turned off. They should operate when the power is restored.
- Most natural gas fireplaces will operate the burner without a power source. Refer to your appliance manufacturer instructions.
- If pipes are in danger of freezing, turn off the main water valve and drain the line by running taps. Put plumbing antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks and bathtub drains. Turn off and drain your water heater by connecting a hose to the drainage tap on the tank. Empty into the basement drain.
A standby electric generator can restore electricity within minutes. Learn how to operate a generator safely.
Power restoration
When power and heating systems have been restored, check your home thoroughly before restoring operation:
- Turn on the main water valve and close taps (close taps on lower levels first).
- Fill and turn on the water heater.
- Flush toilets and drain sinks and tubs to dispose of anti-freeze.
- Check food for spoilage.
- Turn on the main electrical switch.
What to do during an ice storm
When heavy snowstorms and high winds sweep through an area, ice build-ups can affect the power supply. Ice build-up on power lines must be removed to protect against power outages. We encourage you to be patient as our crews work to repair damaged lines. We will try to restore your power as soon as possible.
- Phone us at 1-888-MBHYDRO (1-888-624-9376) if you notice excessive ice buildup on a section of lines or leaning or snapped poles.
- Stay clear of low or sagging lines and remember that traveling under these lines can be dangerous.
- Phone us at 1-888-MBHYDRO (1-888-624-9376) to report any downed lines immediately.
- Treat any downed line as though it is energized and keep others away. Never attempt to move or repair lines or remove tree branches.
- If your vehicle accidentally makes contact with a downed line, do not get out of it. Instead, back slowly away from the line or wait for help to arrive. Read more about what to do if your vehicle comes in contact with a downed power line.
- If the power is out for an extended time, stay tuned to your battery-operated radio for updates on the repairs.
Care for your natural gas meter in winter
Outdoor natural gas meters and/or pressure regulator sets are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. Remember to protect them from ice and snow build-ups during our harsh winter months.
- Clean and repair your leaky eavestroughs regularly to prevent ice and melting snow from dripping onto the natural gas meter and/or pressure regulator set causing them to be encased in ice when the weather is cold.
- Don't pile snow against your natural gas meter and/or pressure regulator set when shoveling or snow blowing.
- Never allow snow to completely cover your natural gas meter and/or pressure regulator set. Remove soft snow build-up gently, using only a broom or your hand.
- If you notice an ice build-up on any part of the natural gas meter and/or pressure regulator set, do not try to remove it by kicking or hitting the meter or piping, contact us.
