Storm Response Update, Nov. 17
Four local states of emergencies declared as a result of the storm have now been terminated and the province's Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) is closing its emergency operations centre.
EMO staff continue to provide needed assistance as communities across Nova Scotia gradually return to normal following last weekend's early winter storm and the office will continue to operate with its normal 24-hour duty officer procedures.
"I want to thank all the emergency workers and volunteers who have once again proven that Nova Scotians have a strong community spirit," Ernest Fage, Minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Act, said today, Nov. 17. "Although power is being restored to the majority of the province, it is important to remember those who are still without power and to provide support wherever it is needed."
The Department of Community Services and the Canadian Red Cross are closing comfort centres as electricity is restored in communities across the province. Centres will remain open, as needed, in the following areas: -- Sobey's community room in Tantallon -- The Agritech Park in Truro -- New Glasgow YMCA -- Summerville Fire Hall -- Brooklyn Fire Hall -- Hall's Harbour Fire Hall -- Canning Fire Hall.
Officials are also urging neighbours and families to continue to check on the more vulnerable people in their communities, especially those in more isolated areas of the province. People on social assistance affected by this emergency can call their caseworkers for assessment of emergency food needs.
"As some people enter their fourth day without power, I can't stress enough the importance of taking safety precautions, especially in view of some recent accidents involving the use of candles and generators," said Mr. Fage.
The fire marshal's office is reminding Nova Scotians to ensure that smoke alarms are in working order and to be extra careful with open flames and other sources of heat while they are without power. Fire officials offer the following advice: -- Use the correct fuel in appliances like Coleman stoves or oil lamps. Substituting fuels is extremely dangerous; -- Generators, propane and liquid camp stoves are for outdoor use only; -- Be aware of the possibility of surges in generators when primary power is restored; -- Space heaters create carbon monoxide. Ensure they are used in rooms with good ventilation and placed on a flat hard surface to prevent tipping. Do not leave the units unattended.
Food safety also remains a primary concern. The main message for those who have recently had power restored: "If in doubt, throw it out." Food safety specialists from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries will again be visiting restaurants and grocery stores to assess foods and provide advice.
Food safety specialists in the Valley area will continue to provide extended hours of operation in order to help residents answer specific questions about food safety. They can be reached at 584-2080 until 10 p.m. today, Nov. 17.
Specialists will be available in other communities from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. today, Nov. 17, at the following numbers:
Bridgewater: 527-5380
Halifax: 424-1173
Kentville: 679-6013
Pictou: 485-7162
Truro: 893-7473
Yarmouth: 742-0614
Additional information concerning food safety during a power outage is available on the department's food safety website at www.gov.ns.ca/nsaf/foodsafety/factsht/powerout.htm .