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Tips from Courtenay Fire Department to help first responders during bad weather

As the Comox Valley continues to shovel out from a substantial series of snowfalls, Courtenay Fire Department Chief Kurt MacDonald reminds residents they can all do their part to make things easier in times of emergency.
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Courtenay Fire Department Chief Kurt MacDonald says having the snow cleared from your driveways and doorways can save critical time in case of an emergency. File photo

As the Comox Valley continues to shovel out from a substantial series of snowfalls, Courtenay Fire Department Chief Kurt MacDonald reminds residents they can all do their part to make things easier in times of emergency.

“In the short term, with the weather being as nasty as it is, just try to make sure that you are providing access for emergency services to your property as best you can - shovelling the snow accumulating in front of doorways and driveways,” said MacDonald. “I know there’s only so much you can do, but anything you can do - something is better than nothing. So if you can improve access for us, or any first responders, be it paramedics, or RCMP, it will make (our jobs) easier.”

The Courtenay Fire Department responded to two separate house fires over a 24-hour period, Dec. 27-28. While both fires are still under investigation, it is believed that the Dec. 27 fire was a direct result of the unseasonably cold weather. A plumber was attempting to thaw out a frozen pipe in the lower level of a home, and some insulation in the walls caught fire.

MacDonald said to be cautious when attempting to warm up frozen pipes.

“Make sure you are using proper equipment - make sure you are not using open flames - and just be careful of what you are doing.”

While the coldest of temperatures appear to be behind us, the long-term forecast for the Courtenay area is for temperatures to remain below zero until New Year’s Day, and then return to the negatives later on in the first week in January.

ALSO: Comox Valley RCMP say ‘pack your patience’ to avoid road collisions this winter


terry.farrell@comoxvalleyrecord.com
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Terry Farrell

About the Author: Terry Farrell

Terry returned to Black Press in 2014, after seven years at a daily publication in Alberta. He brings 14 years of editorial experience to Comox Valley Record...
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