Media Advisory
(Friday, February 15,2002) As the result of a train derailment which has occurred under the Angus L. Macdonald Bridge on the Dartmouth side, the Halifax Regional Fire Service will be conducting an evacuation later this evening of a contained area of residences from Windmill Road to the Harbourfront, bounded by Dawson Street in the west and Geary Street in the east. The evacuation will be carried out as a precautionary measure to facilitate the transfer of propane from an overturned rail car. The Overnight Evacuation will begin at 6 p.m. Residents must be out of their homes by 9pm. A door- to- door canvas will be carried out in the neighbourhood by EMO personnel to advise people of the Evacuation Notice.
Residents in the evacuation area are encouraged to seek alternate arrangements for overnight accommodation. Should residents not be able to find accommodation immediately, the Red Cross has opened a Reception Centre at Findlay Recreation Centre, 26 Elliot Street, off Prince Albert Road in Dartmouth .
Residents evacuating their homes are requested to take all medications and other necessities required for an to be away overnight, as they will not be permitted back within the evacuated area. N.S. Power will be shutting off the power supply in the affected area during the evacuation. Residents are advised to please ensure that all small appliances and electronics are turned off prior to leaving their homes.
The Halifax-Dartmouth Bridge Commission has also advised that Angus L. Macdonald Bridge will be closed this evening after Rush Hour.
Residents may expect to return to their homes sometime tomorrow morning. For further updates on the status of the evacuation, please call the HRM Call Centre at 490-4000.
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Contact: Lori Patterson
Acting HRM Public Information Officer
Cellular: 489-6833
Tel: 490-4213
or John Blandin
Halifax Regional Fire Service
430-3884
