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City Fine Tunes Preparations As River Nears Flood Level
Fredericton (April 21, 2008) - City emergency preparedness officials are keeping a close eye on the St. John River and continuing to urge residents of low-lying or flood-prone areas to be prepared for possible flooding.
"We have seen a steady rise in waters levels over the last few days and we are preparing for any eventuality," said Fire Chief Philip Toole, director of the City's Emergency Measure Organization. "We have been working very closely with our partners in the N.B. Emergency Measures Organization and the Red Cross to ensure anyone who needs assistance gets it, if and when flooding occurs."
Chief Toole, speaking during a briefing to Council-in-Committee, said the City will set up reception centres where anyone affected by rising waters should register. This will assure they will receive assistance if required and relatives will be able to track them down in the event they have to be evacuated.
"Family and friends should be the first line of support for anyone who has to evacuate," said Chief Toole. "With our NBEMO partners we will work to help the rest."
The City will be monitoring the water levels and will announce the location of reception centres and shelters if the situation calls for it. The city will post information on its website at www.fredericton.ca and provide links to the Province's River Watch website and the Federal government's Get Prepared website, which provides valuable information on how you can prepare for a flood or any emergency.
"If you live in an area that could be affected by flooding you should be cleaning out your basement now and making sure you have enough food, water and medicine to last for at least 72 hours," said Chief Toole. "If you are forced to evacuate, make sure you call or go to one of the reception centres to let them know where you are going or to get information about where you can find emergency assistance."
Area residents should also continue to monitor local radio stations for up-to-date flood information. The City will also broadcast flood alerts on its own Information Radio station at 93.3 on the FM dial.
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Media Contact: John White, Communications, City of Fredericton (506) 460-2227.
