Emergency preparedness tips for Burlington residents travelling this holiday season

Taking a trip this holiday season? Whether you're heading to the cottage, visiting family, or travelling abroad, a few simple steps at home can go a long way toward protecting your property and giving you peace of mind while you're away.

Severe weather, power outages or water issues can happen at any time - even when you’re not home. That’s why the City of Burlington is reminding you to plan ahead and prepare your property before travelling.

Home checklist before you travel:

• Secure outdoor items like hockey nets, garbage/recycling bins, umbrellas and planters. Strong winds can turn loose items into hazards.
• Clear eavestroughs and downspouts to help prevent water buildup and basement flooding.
• Test your sump pump and check your backwater valve to make sure both are in working order.
• Turn off your water at the main valve if you’ll be away for an extended period to reduce the risk of leaks or burst pipes.
• Unplug electronics. Smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, power tools are examples of rechargeable devices that use lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries store a big amount of energy in a small space. So, when they are overcharged, short-circuited, punctured, or exposed to heat, they can catch fire or even explode. Unplugging devices before travel helps prevent damage in the event of a power surge, and prevents overcharging devices.
• Ask a trusted neighbour or friend to check on your home, collect mail, and watch for anything unusual. Leave a list of emergency contact numbers; including the vet if pets are being cared for.

Stay connected with local alerts

Even while you're away, you can stay up to date on what’s happening in Burlington:

• Monitor weather alerts from Environment Canada for up-to-date warnings, watches and advisories.
• Check local flood status reports from Conservation Halton, especially during storm season.
• Stay aware of power outages and restoration updates through Burlington Hydro
• Subscribe to City updates for news, extreme weather alerts, service disruptions and more.

Double-check your insurance

It’s a good idea to review your insurance coverage before you leave:

• Are you covered for storm or water damage while you're away?
• Is extended vacancy or travel included in your policy?
• Do you need additional protection for valuables or seasonal risks?

Even if you’re only away for a few days, it’s still worth taking these precautions to protect your home. Burlington’s weather can change quickly, and with simple steps, you can help prevent damage and avoid costly repairs.