#BePrepared: HRM encourages residents to be ready for Hurricane Dorian

Laker-COMMUNITY

FALL RIVER/BEAVER BANK: HRM’s Emergency Management Division will be monitoring weather forecasts in the coming days as Hurricane Dorian heads for our region. With the storm forecast to hit this weekend, residents are urged to prepare in advance.

Property damage:
The largest threat to homes and property is flying debris. Please move umbrellas and patio furniture inside and remove anything that high winds could pick up such as garbage, flower pots, toys etc.

Residents are also encouraged to clear their storm drains of debris to reduce the likelihood of water pooling and trim dead branches or cut down dead trees to reduce the danger of them falling.

Preparedness Tips:
With expected power outages, please refer to Halifax.ca for a full list of preparedness tips and emergency kits. If you have a well, it’s recommended you fill water jugs and your bathtub, as a loss of power will prevent access to well water that relies on electric pumps.

Emergency food and water should be on hand for all family members, including pets. All personal vehicles should be filled with fuel and cell phones should be charged. Many households are now solely reliant on cell phones so battery chargers as well as flashlights are also recommended.

Special items such as prescription medication, infant formula, equipment for people with disabilities or food, water and medication for your pets or service animal should be gathered before the storm.

Cash should also be on hand in the event of a power outage as bank machines may be non-operational.

Safety:
As a reminder, never operate a generator, BBQ or any other fuel filled item inside your home or garage.

Residents are also urged to stay away from the coastline during the storm due to dangers associated with storm surge(s).

Emergency Shelters:
There are numerous locations pre-identified by the municipality as potential emergency comfort centers and shelter sites. Specific sites are activated based on a number of factors identified when assessing each emergency situation. The public will be notified of emergency comfort centers and shelter sites once they are activated. This information is shared via various methods and communications channels including halifax.ca, our primary Twitter account @hfxgov and public service announcements.

Residents can also call 311 for updated information on municipal services or to report issues such as flooding, downed trees or blocked roadways. For emergencies, residents should call 911.

The Emergency Management Division is focused on ensuring the safety and security of residents, their properties, and the environment.
For more information on being prepared for an emergency, the Emergency Management web page.
Residents are encouraged to follow the @hfxgov Twitter account for updates and information during an emergency.