Public Advisory: Residents Encouraged to Prepare for Hurricane Season

Fire and Emergency Services - Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL) is reminding residents of the importance of preparing for hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Forecasters throughout North America are predicting an active hurricane season, with 12 to 18 named storms possible. As experienced through previous storms, residents are encouraged to prepare for flooding, power outages, and other potential impacts which could develop during adverse weather.

Municipalities
Municipal officials should keep apprised of weather forecasts throughout the next few months and heed warnings and advisories as they materialize. FES-NL also encourages officials to check with their insurance companies to fully understand their policies and coverage for fire and emergency situations. In addition, municipalities must be diligent in ensuring that all storm sewers, culverts, bridges, and drains are routinely free from debris and that emergency personnel are available should weather conditions warrant.

Residents
In advance of a storm, residents should ensure they assess their individual situations to determine the steps they can take to ensure their safety and security.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, areas are most likely to be impacted by these types of weather systems during August, September, and October. Some important tips for individuals to keep in mind before and during weather events:

• Know the risks in your specific region;
• Follow local weather forecasts throughout the next few months 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 any person in your household with a medical condition or 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;
• Remove dead tree branches, which could pose a hazard or threat;
• Consider installing a hard-lined phone in your 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.

More information 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 

2011 06 07                                                                              10:25 a.m.