Municipal Affairs
May 20, 2016
Public Advisory: Be Emergency Ready at the Cabin and Campground
This weekend, many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will be opening their cabins or campers for the unofficial start of the summer season. These settings can create unique fire and safety risks that families may not recognize. It is important that residents take the following steps to help ensure a safe and enjoyable spring and summer camping season.
Maintain a comprehensive emergency plan
- Emergency responders may be far away from a cabin or campground. Equip your cabin or camper with a first aid kit and fire extinguisher located near an exit which you can also use to evacuate if needed. Make sure every family member knows how to use the fire extinguisher.
- Consider your location and determine the easiest way to let others know how they can reach you. Minutes could be lost in an emergency if you cannot accurately describe your location.
- Develop a family evacuation and communication plan for the cabin or camper to ensure everyone knows how to evacuate, where to meet, and how to stay in touch during an emergency.
- Ensure your emergency plan supports persons with disabilities. Visit www.codnl.ca/emergency-preparedness/ for more information and resources.
Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are not just for the home. At your cabin, install a smoke detector in every bedroom, outside every separate sleeping area, and on every level. In your camper, ensure you have adequate smoke alarm coverage.
- The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may resemble fatigue and are not obvious until it is too late. If your cabin or camper has any fuel-burning appliance such as a generator, or propane fireplace, install a carbon monoxide detector.
- Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly, or every time you return to the cabin or use your camper and always have fresh batteries on hand.
Take safety precautions around your cabin or camper
- Clean chimneys, barbecues, and any heating appliances before using them.
- Ensure leaves, twigs, and other flammable refuse are removed from the exterior of your cabin.
- Check any power lines servicing your cabin to ensure they have not been damaged since your last visit. Similarly, ensure any electricity hook-up to your camper is in good working order.
- If you choose to drink alcohol, please remember to drink responsibly. Alcohol can slow reaction times in the event of an emergency.
For more information about fire safety and emergency preparedness, visit www.gov.nl.ca/fes/index.html and www.getprepared.ca
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Media contact:
Meghan Drover
Media Relations Manager
Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-0857, 709-690-1810
meghandrover@gov.nl.ca
2016 05 20 10:00 a.m.