Municipal Affairs
September 7, 2012

Public Advisory: Hurricane Preparedness Encouraged for Hurricane Season

Fire and Emergency Services - Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL) is reminding residents and municipalities that hurricane season in North America runs from June to November, with most activity occurring in Newfoundland and Labrador during September and October.

FES-NL, in conjunction with emergency management and Provincial Government partners, continue to monitor the progress of Hurricane Leslie. Although the potential track of this storm remains uncertain, efforts are underway to ensure Newfoundland and Labrador is as prepared as possible for any potential impacts. FES-NL is taking this opportunity to encourage residents and municipalities to prepare for the possibility of flooding, power outages, and other potential impacts which could develop during adverse weather.

Municipalities
Communities throughout the province are advised to ensure emergency management plans are reviewed, readily available, and that relevant local contact information is up to date. Municipal officials should continue to keep apprised of weather forecasts throughout the coming days and heed warnings and advisories as they materialize. In addition, municipalities should be diligent in ensuring that all storm sewers, culverts, bridges, and drains are free from debris and that emergency personnel are available should weather conditions warrant. FES-NL also encourages municipal officials to check with insurance companies to fully understand policies and coverage for emergency situations.

Residents
In advance of any potential storm, residents should determine necessary actions to ensure their safety and security.

Important tips for individuals to keep in mind before and during weather events:

• Know the risks in your specific region;
• Follow local weather forecasts and watch for warnings and advisories;
• Prepare and maintain an emergency kit – be ready to cope on your own for at least 72 hours, to allow first responders to help those in urgent need
• Develop an emergency plan – keep in mind the specific requirements of pets or any person in your household with a medical condition, mobility issues, or other special needs;
• Be aware of all local emergency numbers;
• Understand your insurance policy and potential coverage for fire and emergency situations;
• Ensure sump pumps are in working order;
• Keep all drains free from debris;
• Secure any and all patio furniture, yard tools, or playground equipment which may be affected by heavy winds;
• Remove dead tree branches, which could pose a hazard or threat;
• Consider installing a hard-lined phone for the home as cordless phones will not work in a power outage;
• Should you notice downed power lines in your area, do not touch or attempt to move, but instead advise your utility provider immediately; and,
• If you become aware of flooding on streets or blocked culverts, contact municipal officials to advise them of the situation.

Depending on the track of the storm and information from weather experts, FES-NL will update information as necessary.

More details on personal preparedness can be found at: www.gov.nl.ca/fes or www.getprepared.ca.

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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

2012 09 07                         1:15 p.m.