The Portage area is bracing for a significant amount of snow, and it's raised the issue of survival, in the event of disaster.

Don Brennan, Director of Operations for the Emergency Measures Organization, points out you need a survival kit in your home, as well as your vehicle. He adds the standard is enough supplies in the home to last 72 hours, noting planning ahead for any kind of disaster is essential.

Brennan also recommends a survival kit in your vehicle, containing blankets, food, candles, matches, and a shovel, among other things. Keeping your vehicle tuned and well-fuelled is a significant key to survival.

If you're stranded, he urges you to stay with the vehicle, running the engine and lights sparingly, while ensuring the exhaust pipe isn't blocked.