On the Road During An Emergency Situation

What do I do if I'm in my car when an emergency strikes?

Carry a Car Survival Kit – every driver should carry booster cables, vehicle fluids, emergency flares, “survival” candle, a blanket and first aid equipment. Always remember to keep your vehicle serviced and keep the gas tank at least half full.

In an emergency situation where you must pull off the road:

• Pull your vehicle completely off the road;

• Turn your emergency flashers on;

• Roll the driver’s window down halfway, hook the sign on the window, and roll the window back up;

• Lock all doors and remain in the vehicle Open a window one centimetre for ventilation;

• If someone other than a police officer approaches your vehicle, DO NOT open the windows further or unlock the doors.

If you see “CALL POLICE” highway help signs:

• Note the location of the vehicle. DO NOT STOP;

• Use your cellular telephone to call the OPP (dial *677) or the Niagara Regional Police (dial 9-1-1);

• If you do not have a cellular phone, stop at the nearest gas station or store to make the call.

If you are driving in emergency conditions:

• Have a cellular phone with you;

• Keep the radio on to hear important information;

• Follow the routes specified by officials;

• Don’t take short cuts; they could lead you to a blocked or dangerous area;

• Watch for fallen power lines, debris, damaged bridges/roads and dangling wires;

• If your car gets stuck, remain calm and stay in your car;

• Keep fresh air in your car by opening the window slightly on the sheltered side, away from the wind;

• You can run the car engine about 10 minutes every half-hour if the exhaust system is working well;

• Beware of exhaust fumes and check the exhaust pipe periodically to make sure it is not blocked with snow. Remember, you cannot smell potentially fatal carbon monoxide fumes.

In a Flooding Emergency:

• If you must walk or drive in a flooded area, make sure you are on firm ground;

• Travel very carefully, and only if absolutely necessary through flooded areas;

• Roads may be washed away or covered with water;

• If you come across a barricade or a flooded road, take a different route;

• If you are caught in fast rising waters and your car stalls, leave it and save yourself and your passengers.