Hurricane Gonzalo Preparedness

The current track of Hurricane Gonzalo has the system approaching near the City of St. John’s, during the late evening hours on Saturday, October 18.
 
Throughout the past 48 hours, City crews have been inspecting municipal infrastructure, including roads, culverts, parks and rivers, to ensure that all systems are clear and in proper working order.
 
There are many steps that residents can take to ensure personal safety and preparedness:

• Know the risks in your specific region
• Follow local weather forecasts and watch for warnings and advisories
• Be aware of all local emergency numbers
• Emergencies that require assistance from fire, police or ambulance should be directed to 911
• Ensure sump pumps are in working order
• Know where the main water valve shut-off is in your home
• Keep all household drains free from debris
• Remove dead tree branches, which could pose a hazard or threat
• Prepare and maintain an emergency kit – be ready to cope on your own for at least 72 hours
• Ensure your vehicle is prepared with an emergency kit and a full tank of gas
• Ensure you have easy access to clean drinking water and non-perishable food items
• Ensure you have any medications that are crucial
• Test your smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly
• Understand your insurance policy and potential coverage for fire and emergency situations
• Ensure you secure items outside your home, which could potentially be a hazard in high wind
• Consider installing a hard-lined phone, as cordless phones will not work in a power outage
• Ensure you have a battery operated portable radio
• Use flashlights, rather than candles and have a good supply of batteries; if you use candles, don't leave them unattended
• Should you notice downed power lines in your area, do not touch or attempt to move them.  Call Newfoundland Power immediately at 1-800-474-5711.

 
If you become aware of blocked culverts or malfunctioning traffic lights please contact Access St. John’s at 311 or 754-CITY (2489) to advise us of the situation.
 
More information on personal preparedness can also be found at the City of St. John’s website, www.gov.nl.ca/fes or www.getprepared.ca.