In the event of an emergency evacuation, the municipality's Emergency Management Division of Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE) will notify residents and explain the evacuation procedures.
Before
- Learn the type of disasters that are likely in your community and the local emergency, evacuation, and shelter plans for each specific disaster.
- Plan how will you leave and where you will go if you’re advised to evacuate
- Identify several places you could go in an emergency
- Be familiar with alternate routes and other means of transportation out of your area
- If needed identify a place to stay that will accept pets .
- Assemble supplies that are ready for an evacuation in a “go-bag ”
- If you have a car keep a full tank of gas if an evacuation seems likely, or a half tank of gas in at all times
During
- A list of open shelters can be found during an active disaster in your local area by accessing the Emergency Management website.
- Listen to a battery-operated radio
- Take your emergency supply kit
- Leave early enough to avoid being trapped
- If you are trapped or injured call 911
- Take your pets with you
- Secure your home
- Unplug electrical equipment
- Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that provides some protection
- Check with neighbors that may need a ride
- Follow recommended evacuation routes
- Be alert of road hazards
- Do not drive into flooded areas
After
- Charge devices and consider getting back-up batteries
- Avoid downed power or utility lines If a tree or tree limbs have fallen on a power line or pulled it down, keep a safe distance from the line or the tree. Call 911 as soon as you can!
- Only use generators away from your home and never run a generator inside a home, a garage, or connect it to your homes electrical system
- Examine your walls, doors, staircases, and windows for damage
- Take picture of damage, both building and its contents
- Do not use water that may have been contaminated
- If you suspect your home is unsafe, do not enter. Rely on the professionals to clear your home for re-entry if you are unsure.
- Check with local authorities on how to properly dispose of damaged items from your home
FAQ
How will we be notified of an evacuation?
- You can expect to be notified of an emergency evacuation by a member of the Halifax regional fire and Emergency Team, a Halifax police officer, or a ground search and rescue team member will visit your residence to advise an evacuation order.
- A public safety announcement will be made to all local media outlets and social media channels: @hfxgov @hfxmoments
- Stay informed with hfxALERT.
Where should we go if we are notified of an evacuation?
- Residents of the affected area will be asked to relocate to a designated comfort Centre or their preferred safe location site.
- Comfort centers will always be opened outside the affected zone.
- If you have been affected by a personal disaster and require assistance, contact the Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597
Where can I find more information?
- Stay informed by following us on social media @hfxgov @hfxmoments, and listening to the radio and local news channels.
- Stay up-to-date on warnings and risks through Environment Canada
What should I do to stay safe?
- Listen to your authorities follow their direction, be ready for evacuation, and help your neighbours.
- Make an emergency plan
How can I help?
- Join our JEM team!