Municipal Affairs
February 11, 2010
New Tool to Assist
Communities in Planning for Emergencies
Municipalities and Local Service Districts
throughout the province will take the next steps in
effective emergency planning this month, as a key tool
arrives by mail. 12 Steps to Developing an Effective
Emergency Management Plan is a tool kit and video guide
funded by the Provincial and Federal Government to assist
communities in planning for the many possible emergency
situations which can arise. The Honourable Tom Hedderson,
Minister for Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible
for Fire and Emergency Services-NL (Acting), said this
document will be of great assistance, as communities
move closer to the May 1, 2012, deadline to have an
emergency management plan in place.
“The people of this province know all too well how
quickly an emergency situation can develop,” said
Minister Hedderson. “Effective emergency planning is a
priority for our government, essential for minimizing
the risks to life and property. The Emergency Services
Act was proclaimed last year. Regional emergency
management and planning officers across the province
have been available to help our towns and communities
meet their legislated responsibility and protect their
residents.”
While some areas may already have an existing emergency
management plan, now is the time to update the plan in
accordance with the new act. In an effort to ensure
communities move forward in the process, Fire and
Emergency Services has developed a one-day workshop to
assist in the plan’s development.
“Councils, committees and residents throughout
Newfoundland and Labrador have to begin asking some
serious questions,” said Minister Hedderson.
“Municipalities need to know the hazards, who to contact
in the event of an emergency, and the residents and
community groups who can help provide assistance. Our
government is committed to providing the resources
needed to help ensure effective emergency preparedness.”
Communities are encouraged to contact Fire and Emergency
Services for assistance in starting or amending their
emergency management plans. One-day municipal workshops
will begin in regions across the province in the coming
weeks.
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Media contact:
Cheryl Gullage
Public Relations Specialist
Fire and Emergency Services- Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-0857, 631-9962
CherylGullage@gov.nl.ca
2010 02 11
10:50 a.m.
