Be Prepared for Emergencies

It’s hurricane season and the City of St. John’s is asking everyone to do their part to be prepared. 

72 Hour Rule 
In the event of an emergency, please be prepared to be on your own for 72 hours.

During major storms, the focus of City crews is to maintain access to streets so emergency vehicles (Fire/Police/Ambulance) and utility crews can respond to emergencies. If you are prepared for 72 hours, this allows time for first responders and utility companies to attend to emergency calls and assist those who are in grave danger first. For information on personal preparedness visit: GetPrepared.ca

Election Signs
The City is reaching out to all Candidates of the municipal and federal elections to request that election signs be removed and/or secured to fixed objects in anticipation of high winds.

How does the City prepare? 
When a hurricane or tropical storm is in the forecast, City preparations include:

• Receiving frequent forecast updates from Wood and Environment Canada weather offices to assist in planning
• Keeping residents informed via website, social media and media briefings when needed
• Preparing sand bags and clearing debris from catch basins and culverts 
• Fueling and preparing equipment, including trucks, loaders and graders
• Removing known tree concerns and preparing equipment for immediate response
• Stocking Traffic Division vans with signs and readying barricades in case street closures are needed
• Informing Contractors working with the City to secure their sites
• Inspecting rivers and removing debris in an effort to prevent water flow blockages that cause flooding

How can you prepare at home?
If you encounter a road or sidewalk hazard during a storm such as a downed tree, object, or a power line, it is important that you stay away from the area. Report any road or sidewalk hazard to the City by contacting Access St. John’s at 311 or 754-CITY (2489), or online.

Downed power lines, power outages or damaged poles can be reported directly to Newfoundland Power online or by phone 1-800-474-5711.

• Prepare your emergency kit before the hurricane is forecasted
• Follow local weather forecasts for warnings and advisories
• Inspect trees on your property for dead, broken or hanging branches which could pose a hazard or threat
• Secure outdoors items that are a potential hazard in high wind
• Report potential hazards on or near City property to 311 or 754-CITY (2489), or online
• Be aware of all local emergency numbers
• Ensure you have access to clean drinking water and non-perishable food items
• If you have medication, ensure you have enough to last 72 hours
• Know where the main water valve shut-off is in your home
• Keep all household drains free from debris and ensure sump pumps are in working order
• Test your smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly
• If you have a generator, fuel and test to ensure it is available if needed and ensure an adequate supply of fuel is on hand
• Use flashlights, rather than candles and have a good supply of batteries; if you use candles, don't leave them unattended

Video source Getprepared.ca