It’s almost a week since Hurricane Dorian hit Nova Scotia with heavy rainfall and high damaging winds. With all of Nova Scotia under a Hurricane Warning last Saturday, the effects have been felt from one end of the province to the other, with 80% of the province without power at one point. People from across the province are wondering what you can do on the South Shore to help after Hurricane Dorian.

Halifax bore the brunt of the storm, however the clean up since has revealed how much damage was done on the South Shore and other coastal areas. Gaff Point has been severely damaged by the storm and many of our Provincial Parks are still closed while they assess the damage. Kejimkujik National Park is looking at an extended closure based on an on-the-ground assessment of park conditions.

Then there’s the power. Nova Scotia Power said yesterday that the South Shore was one of the more challenging ares when it came to power restoration. As of this writing, there are still 16 682 homes in Nova Scotia without power according to the NS Power Outage Map, with 3281 homes in Liverpool and 1703 in Bridgewater, still in the dark.

In typical Maritime fashion, we’ve seen lots of people helping their neighbours and coming to each others rescue in time of need. There are things we could all be doing to help, even if we don’t know someone who was directly impacted.

Here are a few ideas of what you can do on the South Shore to help after Hurricane Dorian.

Drop off a hot meal or some water to someone still without power

The convenience of turning on your tap to run water, or make a meal in your stove, is one that people still without power are surely missing. The weekend is coming and many are now told it could be Sunday night at 11:00pm before power is restored. Maybe drop off a nice pot of soup and rolls, or a couple jugs of water? A gesture I’m sure would be much appreciated.

Consider joining your local fire department or making a donation

Many of our local fire halls have become comfort stations over the past week. With the use of a generator, they have been offering people a place to come and charge devices, refill water jugs and sometimes even have a meal. Then of course, they are there, jumping into action when there is a fire, which unfortunately our area also experienced as a result of Hurricane Dorian. The iconic Petite General Store caught fire and suffered extensive damage earlier this week, with 8 volunteer fire departments responding to the blaze and a 9th on stand-by.

Where would we be without these volunteers? It’s no secret that all of our fire departments are desperate for volunteers and are actively recruiting new members. Why not have a conversation with someone from your local fire department about what’s involved. Go to a meeting. Volunteer at a community supper. Make a donation to your local fire department. These fire halls and community volunteers are there when we need them and are a go-to during emergencies, show your appreciation and consider joining in some way.

Support your local farmers market

Last weekend pretty much every farmers market was cancelled due to the Hurricane. These weekly markets, especially in September, with produce, flowers, etc at their peak, are a busy time for the vendors. Losing income from even one market can have a significant impact on these producers. This weekend go visit one of our many farmers markets here on the South Shore and show your support. It will mean a lot.

Have a meal at a locally run restaurant or cafe

Many local restaurants were closed for days as they were without power. Then there were the issues of food loss. Go out this weekend, if you can and support these local businesses. How about stopping into Mateus Bistro’s or The Biscuit Eater for a nice lunch? Supper at The Port Grocer? Coffee and a treat at Fancy Pants or The Barn? Days without being able to be open or provide their normal service can really impact bottom lines. Show your support this weekend…and all year…to these local establishments.

Be prepared and ready for the next storm

Our weather has definitely changed and we are seeing more and more bigger storms here in Nova Scotia. Hurricanes, tropical storms and winter snowfalls that often lead to power outages. If you lost power for any length of time during Hurricane Dorian, or are still without, then you probably already have a list of supplies you may want to invest in.

Flashlights, butane stoves, crank radio, head lamp, generator, coolers, portable water jugs, etc are all things will make things safe and more comfortable during any power outage, especially extended ones. Make a list of what you need to do for storm prep. Have everything in one spot so it’s easy to locate.

If you’re wondering what we can do on the South Shore to help after Hurricane Dorian…think about your neighbours, your local farmers and producers, local restaurants, cafes and fire halls and show your support. Then make sure you are prepared and ready for the next weather event.

How are you doing following Hurricane Dorian? Still without power? Damage done to your property? Leave a comment and let us know and how you are preparing for the next time.