New Generator Ensures Seniors Safe and Secure

Seniors living in Dr. Samuel Prince Manor in Halifax can be assured of their safety, security and comfort with the installation of a new backup generator in their building

"Generators are instrumental in ensuring that seniors experience minimal disruption if their building has an extended power outage," said Community Services Minister David Morse. "Backup generators maintain the operation of the fire alarm, emergency lights, boiler or furnace, and one elevator during a power outage. Lights and electricity are also supplied to a common room."

Dr. Samuel Prince Manor is a nine-storey, 135-unit building. The province will issue a call for tenders for the installation in September. The project is scheduled to be completed in December.

In December 2004, the Department of Community Services announced $1 million for the installation of elevators and backup generators in public housing buildings, and to upgrade existing units to accommodate portable backup generators. The cost to install a permanent generator can be as high as $100,000 in a large building. Currently, there are 35 generator projects in various stages of development.