Extreme Weather Safety
Severe weather can happen without warning, and being prepared is key to staying safe. York Regional Police provides this page to connect the community with reliable resources, tips, and guidance for extreme weather events, helping you protect yourself, your family, and your property during storms, heatwaves, floods, and other weather emergencies.
Stay safe in bad weather by having a plan. Severe weather can strike quickly, but being prepared can protect your family and reduce stress. Know what to do during a storm, flood, heatwave, or winter emergency so you can act fast and stay safe.
Safety Tips
What to do during a heat wave
- Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated
- Avoid strenuous activities. If you must, reschedule for early morning or late evening
- Dress accordingly. Light-colours and lightweight fabrics will help keep you cooler
- Spend time in air conditioned places. Visit a library or a shopping mall to get some relief from the heat
- Check on elderly neighbours to ensure they are okay
- Stay out of the sun
What to do during lightning or thunderstorm
- Avoid outdoor activities if storms are imminent
- Stay away from tall trees, poles or towers
- Seek shelter in a sturdy building or in a vehicle. Don't touch any metal surfaces or use electrical appliances
- Steer clear of windows in case they break
What to do during inclement winter weather
- Avoid overexertion. Shovelling snow, pushing vehicles and walking in deep snow can put a strain on your heart
- Have an emergency survival kit in your home and in your vehicle. Extra food and water, heating sources, batteries, a cellphone and flashlights are just a few things you might need to help you and your family wait out a storm
- Dress for the weather. Hypothermia and frostbite can occur in minutes in subzero temperatures
- Check weather reports so you can prepare ahead of time
What to do during a flash flood
- During a flash flood, you're in the most danger if you're in a vehicle. Do not drive in flooded areas
- Don't use electrical tools in wet areas
- It can take as little as six inches of fast-moving water to sweep someone off their feet
- Stay indoors if possible and avoid flooded areas
- If you are outside, move to higher ground as quickly as possible
What to do during a hurricane or tornado
- Seek shelter immediately. Go to the lowest level available and sit under a heavy desk or table or next to a wall. Cover your head
- If you don't have a basement, move to an interior room or hallway of your home. Stay away from windows
- Exit your vehicle and head for the nearest building. Cars are easily picked up by tornados
- Be aware of flying debris. Windows can easily shatter or you could be hit by a flying object
- Do not seek shelter under a highway overpass. They create wind tunnels
- If you are caught outside, lay flat on the ground with your hands covering your head
