Public Service Announcement

Residents Urged to Prepare for High Winds, Heavy Rainfall

(Monday, October 24/05)- In light of the strong winds and heavy rainfall forecast for the province tomorrow, Halifax Regional Municipality urges its residents to ensure catch basins in front of their property are free from leaves and other blockages which could result in flooding.

Public Works and Transportation crews are trying to clear catch basins in high-risk flood areas, but it is impossible for them to clear all of the many thousands of catch basins located throughout our region.

A post-tropical storm resulting from the remnants of Hurricane Wilma is forecast to approach Nova Scotia tomorrow or Wednesday.

HRM urges residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property in the event the storm strikes this area. Suggestions include:

-- Secure objects on your property that could be torn loose or blown around.
-- Maintain an emergency kit, including food, a supply of water, clothing, blankets medication, a flashlight, battery powered radio, extra batteries, and a first aid kit.
-- Choose a shelter area away from windows for you and your family. A basement, storm cellar or closet beneath the stairs can provide a good shelter in a severe storm.
-- Be prepared for flooding by moving furniture and personal property away from possible flood areas and securing property that might be swept away or damaged by a flood.
-- Have cash on hand in case of a prolonged power outage.
-- Prepare freezer packs by placing water-filled soda or plastic milk containers in your deep freezer. These can be used to help keep the freezer and/or refrigerator cold in the event of a power outage.
-- Choose a meeting place for you and your family and set up some form of communication to notify each other of whereabouts and safety.

HRM thanks the public for their assistance with this matter.

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John O’Brien
Manager, HRM Corporate Communications
(902) 490-6531