Municipal Affairs
September 5, 2008

Reminder to Municipalities and Residents of Potential Effects of Hurricane Season on the Province

Given the impacts of recent weather-related events which resulted in significant damage and great personal loss, municipalities and the general public are advised to take appropriate actions to mitigate against any future damage which may be caused by the 2008 hurricane season.

"As another weather system begins to creep its way up the Atlantic seaboard, municipalities, home and business owners, and boat owners should take every precaution to prevent damages that could be caused by any potential flooding and higher than normal tides," said the Honourable Dave Denine, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services � Newfoundland and Labrador. "Newfoundlanders and Labradorians should be listening for updated forecasts and act accordingly during the next number of weeks as tropical storms and hurricanes work their way up the Atlantic seaboard."

Based on the province�s experiences with hurricanes and tropical storms over the past number of years, the province is clearly subject to adverse weather and the province and residents need to be vigilant and take appropriate precautionary measures. The following information should be retained for this fall season. Some steps to prepare for adverse weather include:

  • Ensure all drains are free from debris, clean out window and door wells, close all windows, etc.
  • Ensure that sump pumps are working.
  • Keep items such as lawn furniture and ladders out of the wind.
  • Secure exposed fishing gear on both commercial boats and pleasure craft.
  • Remove, in a safe manner, dead tree branches from trees that could pose a hazard.
  • Ensure that cell phones are charged and that you have fresh batteries for a portable radio should the power go out.
  • Should basement flooding occur, ensure that the power is shut off at the main breaker before stepping into water. Care should be taken to prevent electrocution. If you are unsure call a licensed electrician.
  • Property owners should advise their municipal officials if they become aware of excessive flooding on streets or blocked drains or culverts.
  • Should you become aware of downed power lines, do not touch them and advise Newfoundland Power immediately.
  • Municipalities are advised to ensure that all measures such as the clearing of storm sewers, culverts, bridges, drains, etc. are free from debris and that emergency personnel are available should the need arise.
  • Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are advised to use caution in undertaking theses preventive measures. A few minutes of preparation has proven it can save lives.

    "We have experienced first-hand what our harsh North Atlantic environment can cause when high winds and heavy rains hit our communities," said Minister Denine. "A few hours of preventive maintenance on our municipal infrastructure and some emergency planning in our homes can save lives and millions of dollars in potential damages. Common sense practices should prevail. Emergency preparedness starts with the individual, so get prepared."

    For weather updates and storm tracking, please visit the Environment Canada website at www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca, or listen to your local radio station. Information and tips on getting prepared for adverse weather and disasters can be found at www.getprepared.ca or at www.gov.nl.ca/ma/fes/.

    -30-

    Media contact:
    Bradley Power
    Public Relations Specialist
    Fire and Emergency Services � Newfoundland and Labrador
    Department of Municipal Affairs
    709-729-3703, 697-5216
    BradleyPower@gov.nl.ca

    2008 09 05                                              1:50 a.m.


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