Be storm ready at home and on the road with CAA SCO

THORNHILL, ON, Oct. 29, 2012 /CNW/ - A wind warning has been issued as Hurricane Sandy spirals north. Forecasters are predicting gusts could reach 100 km/h this evening. Southern Ontario can also expect between 30 and 50 mm of rain by Wednesday.

CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) is recommending the following driving tips to safely get you where you are going.

• Plan ahead. Check weather and traffic reports, as well, carry a fully charged phone and dress appropriately.
• Be prepared. Expect sudden gusts of wind at any time, but particularly in open stretches of road and on bridges.
• Keep both hands on the wheel.
• Reduce your speed. Slow down and leave extra space between you and the vehicles around you.
• Be alert. Watch for other vehicles drifting into your lane.
• Secure your load.
• Watch for debris on the road.

Meanwhile, heavy rains could bring increased flooding and water damage to your home — if you're not properly prepared. CAA Insurance wants you to know that water damage caused by sudden, heavy rains can be avoided through the following tips:

• Install flood shields on all basement windows above ground level.
• Extend downspouts so that rainwater flows away from your home.
• Call your local city works department to see if your home is located in a flood plain.
• In older homes, ensure you have a properly installed backflow valve to prevent sewage back up in your home.

Learn more about how CAA Insurance can help protect your home at www.caasco.com/insurance.

CAA South Central Ontario is a not-for-profit auto club offering insurance, travel, automotive care and roadside services. There are more than 1.9 million CAA members in South Central Ontario and 5 million members in Canada. We're more than Roadside Assistance. We're Life-side Assistance.

SOURCE: CAA South Central Ontario

Media contact: Silvana Aceto, Media and PR Specialist, CAA SCO, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone] or Jeff LeMoine, Communications Specialist, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone].