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Municipal Affairs
August 21, 2009

Minister Stresses Importance of Household Emergency Plans

High winds, heavy rain, storm surges and power outages can cause significant damage or personal harm to persons and property. The Honourable Dianne Whalen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services - Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL), reminds residents of the importance of personal readiness and household planning for extreme weather conditions.

�With the onset of hurricane season and light of recent weather forecasts, I encourage residents to assess their individual situations and determine what they can do to ensure their safety and the security of their property during extreme weather conditions,� said Minister Whalen. �Planning is especially important if you live in an area prone to flooding, storm surges or harsh weather.�

Some important tips to observe include:

  • Ensure all drains are free from debris, clean out window and door wells, close all windows etc.;
  • Keep items such as lawn furniture and ladders out of the wind;
  • Secure exposed fishing gear, and 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;
  • Ensure that sump pumps are working;
  • 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;
  • Should you become aware of downed power lines, do not touch them, but advise Newfoundland Power immediately; and,
  • Municipalities are advised to ensure that all storm sewers, culverts, bridges, drains, etc. are free from debris; and,
  • Property owners should advise their municipal officials if they become aware of excessive flooding on streets or blocked drains or culverts.

�Often times it is without significant warning that the next flood or other weather event will strike, but we know that the more we do in advance to prepare the better the outcome could be,� said Minister Whalen. �Our government will continue to work with municipalities, local service districts and first response partners to ensure that our province is prepared, but it is also important that all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians take the necessary steps now, like developing a household emergency plan.�

All households should have an emergency kit prepared. The kit should include a battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, medicines, non-perishable food, hand-operated can opener, utility knife, and first aid supplies. Copy and store your important documents in a waterproof bag. These may include medical records, contracts, property deeds, leases, banking records, insurance records and birth certificates.

This is also the time to consider potential needs of everyone in the household during an emergency. If your household includes a person with mobility issues, medical conditions, children or other special needs, then their requirements in an emergency situation should be a part of the household plan.

Pets should also be considered as part of the household plan. For example, they may become agitated during the onset of a storm and a pet carrier is a must for safe travel.

FES-NL leads and supports the province in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation, to reduce the loss of life and property and supports municipalities to protect their residents from all hazards including natural disasters or large-scale emergencies.

For more preparedness information, please visit www.ma.gov.nl.ca/ma/fes/EPW2009RKG.htm or www.getprepared.ca

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Media contact:
Bradley Power
Public Relations Specialist
Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-0857, 697-5216
bradleypower@gov.nl.ca

2009 08 21                                       10:20 a.m.
 


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