Public Advisory: Information for People Affected By Hurricane Igor

Following the widespread impacts of Hurricane Igor on residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Government is moving ahead with emergency response and recovery efforts. The scale of the storm is unprecedented in this province and the magnitude of the infrastructure damage is severe, including many roads and bridges washed out and subsequent infrastructure damaged. A number of communities remain isolated and every effort is being made to make contact with these municipalities to determine their individual circumstances.

Officials with Fire and Emergency Services — Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL) are engaged with the Departments of Municipal Affairs and Transportation and Works in reviewing the situation across the affected areas and are assessing the damages. All are fully engaged in working with municipalities to continue focus on public safety until such time as access to all communities has been reestablished. Regional emergency management and planning officers, fire protection officers and provincial engineers are advising on issues of temporary bridge and road access, water and sewer repairs, and other infrastructure repairs. More permanent repairs will take longer.

Residents are encouraged to do what they can to alleviate the damages within their own homes. Small business owners and home owners are encouraged to:

• Document losses and damages. This should include pictures, videos, written documentation and an inventory of damages;
• Remove household contents that are destroyed but do not dispose of them. Store or cover with a tarp (if kept outside);
• Disconnect the power supply to any waterlogged appliances such as freezers, washing machines and dryers. Do not use unless they are fully inspected by an electrician; they could be a potential fire hazard or could still cause electrocution. This warning also applies to hot water boilers, furnaces, and appliances, which may operate by motor or are electric in nature; and,
• Stay clear of downed power lines and open bodies of water, as grounds may be unstable.

FES-NL is preparing to implement a disaster assistance program for impacted home owners and small business owners. Compensation for damages will be based on criteria established by both the provincial and federal disaster assistance programs. Further information will be made available to the public and municipalities in the coming days.

Individuals with questions or requiring additional information are encouraged to call FES-NL at 1-888-395-5611.

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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 09 22                                                    4:45 p.m.