During An Emergency

During some emergencies, it may be necessary to protect our citizens by evacuating the area impacted by the emergency. An emergency evacuation centre may be set up to provide shelter and food to people affected by the emergency. If there were a need to be evacuated, you would be notified.

• Keep phone lines open for use by emergency workers
• Listen to local radio, television or cable broadcasts for emergency instructions and current information
• Assemble the food and supplies you plan to take with you
• Refer to lists of family medications, records and irreplaceable items
• Follow the instructions of your local authority about whether to switch off utility services. In the case of some gas and propane appliances that are manually operated, it would be wise to shut off the gas supply if the appliance is going to be unattended
• Follow the instructions and advice of your government. If you are asked to evacuate, do so promptly
• Travel only on routes that are specified or recommended by emergency services
• A reception centre may be set up to provide food, shelter and information to people affected by an emergency

After An Emergency

Right after an emergency, you may feel stressed, confused and disoriented. These are perfectly normal reactions. If you are informed and prepared, you will be in a position to recover more quickly and you can help others do the same.

The following steps will help you get back on track.

• Help anyone who is injured. Get your emergency survival kit (your first aid kit should be with it)
• Listen to your local radio station for instructions and information

Don’t use the telephone unless it is absolutely necessary.   
Emergency crews will need all available lines.

Check your home:

Remember the following points:

• Use a flashlight. Don’t light matches or turn on the electrical switches if you suspect damage or smell gas
• Check for fires and fire hazards
• Sniff for gas leaks, starting at the water heater. If you smell gas, turn off the main gas valve, open windows and get everyone outside quickly.  For information on safe procedures for shutting off the main gas valve, contact your gas company
• Shut off any other damaged utilities. For information on safe procedures for shutting off utilities, contact your utility provider
• Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline and other flammable liquids immediately. Wear protective clothing. For major spills or leaks, call for professional help
• Confine or secure your pets
• Check on your neighbours, especially the elderly or people with disabilities

Remember, if you turn off the gas, a professional from the gas company should turn it back on.

In Rama, you can access information about area emergency situations by listening to local radio and television stations, calling the Community Emergency Management line at (705) 330-3299 if the emergency is located in our community, checking Rama’s website, Facebook and Twitter pages.  When a community emergency is declared, residents will be provided with information and direction as available.