Municipal Affairs
December 17, 2010
Public
Advisory: Rainfall Anticipated to Continue for Parts of the
Province
As a result of the latest
forecast issued by Environment Canada calling for continued
heavy rain in parts of the north east Avalon, Fire and Emergency
Services � Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL) has issued a
reminder to residents and municipalities to take all necessary
precautions. Residents of the province are urged to remain
vigilant in preparing for potential flooding and other emergency
situations which could arise as a result of excessive rainfall.
Although warnings have not been
issued, it is important to be prepared should the need arise.
This is strictly a precautionary measure, but as indicated by
the recent events in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Hurricane
Igor in this province, excessive rainfall can cause considerable
damage to homes and infrastructure.
FES-NL is reminding people to
take stock of their properties, be mindful of the potential
hazards and take any precautions which could be of benefit if
rainfall amounts should escalate. A list of precautionary
measures can be found in the backgrounder below.
It is also recommended residents
pay particular attention to the forecast throughout the weekend
and in the coming days.
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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
BACKGROUNDER
Important Tips for Potential Weather Events
- Safely remove dead tree
branches from any trees which could pose a hazard or threat;
- Ensure sump pumps are in
working order;
- Keep all drains free from
debris, clean out window and door wells, keep windows firmly
closed;
- Ensure all patio furniture,
barbeque equipment and yard tools are secured to avoid
potential damage in high winds;
- Secure any and all exposed
fishing gear, and both pleasure crafts and commercial boats;
- Ensure all cell phones are
charged and that fresh batteries are available for a
portable radio in the event of a power outage;
- Hard-lined phones can also
be of benefit, as cordless models will not work in a power
outage;
- In the event of basement
flooding, ensure the power is shut off at the main breaker
before stepping into the water to avoid the possibility of
electrocution. If you are unsure, call a licensed
electrician;
- If you become aware of
excessive flooding on streets or blocked culverts or drains,
contact municipal officials to advise them of the situation;
- Should you notice downed
power lines in your area, do not touch or attempt to move,
but instead advise your utility provider immediately;
- For municipalities, ensure
that all storm sewers, culverts, bridges, and drains are
free from debris and that emergency personnel are available
should the need arise, and;
- An emergency kit should be
accessible for households and in both commercial and
personal vehicles. They may include a flashlight, a
battery-powered radio, extra batteries, first aid supplies,
medicines, non-perishable food, and other suitable items.
2010 12 17
4:55 p.m.
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