Justice and Public Safety
October 16, 2014

Public Advisory: Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador Monitoring Hurricane Gonzalo

The Canadian Hurricane Centre is advising residents of the potential for high winds, heavy rainfall and large waves to occur this weekend as a result of Hurricane Gonzalo.

Fire and Emergency Services–Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL) is monitoring the weather system as it tracks toward the province and will provide updates as necessary. The public is advised to monitor forecast information.

Local governments in the province are required by law to adopt emergency management plans, and municipalities are encouraged to review their emergency management plans in advance of Hurricane Gonzalo reaching the province.

FES-NL is working with emergency management partners on preparedness activities. Residents and municipalities are advised to prepare for the possibility of flooding, power outages, and other potential impacts which could develop as a result of this weather system. Public works crews should make every effort to remove debris from culverts, drains, streams and underneath bridges. In addition, those residing in coastal areas of the province are advised to prepare for potentially large waves, pounding surf or potential storm surges which may develop.

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians should keep emergency preparedness top of mind. A few simple steps now, as outlined below, may prevent personal harm if a serious incident were to occur:

• Ensure sump pumps are in working order;
• Keep all household drains free from debris;
• If you become aware of flooding on streets or observe areas where culverts are blocked, contact municipal officials to advise them of the situation as soon as possible;
• Watch for weather warnings and advisories;
• Follow local weather forecasts – weather.gc.ca/warnings/index_e.html?prov=nl ;
• Prepare and maintain a 72 hour emergency kit – www.getprepared.ca ;
• Develop an emergency plan, remembering the specific requirements of pets or any person in your household with a medical condition, mobility issues, or other special needs - www.gov.nl.ca/fes/emo/preparedness.html;
• Be aware of all local emergency numbers;
• Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy; and
• For information about insurance coverage please visit the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) website: www.ibc.ca/en/Natural_Disasters/Protect_Yourself_from_Climate_Change/Are_you_covered.asp .

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Media contact:
Luke Joyce
Director of Communications
Department of Justice and Public Safety
709-729-6985, 725-4165
lukejoyce@gov.nl.ca

2014 10 16                                        2:15 p.m.