Precautions Needed During Power Outages

In the wake of possible power outages linked to Tropical Storm Kyle, the Emergency Management Office (EMO) and provincial officials are reminding Nova Scotians to use caution in and outside their homes.

Environment Canada has issued a hurricane warning for Shelburne, Yarmouth and Digby counties with possible sustained winds of 80 kilometres an hour with hurricane-force gusts of 130 km/h. A tropical storm warning has been issued for Lunenburg, Queens and Annapolis counties, with gusts of up to 100 km/h.

"Due to hurricane-force winds, we can anticipate power outages from broken tree limbs in the affected areas," said Emergency Management Minister Carolyn Bolivar-Getson. "We encourage people to use caution inside as well outside their home."

People are reminded to be aware of dangers associated with electric-powered smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, which will not work during outages.

The fire marshal offers the following safety tips:

• Be sure battery-powered detectors and alarms have fresh batteries and are in good working condition.
• Put the correct fuel in portable appliances like Coleman stoves or oil lamps. Substituting fuels is extremely dangerous. Propane and liquid camp stoves are for outdoor use only.
• 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.

As always, in an emergency call 911.

In the event of power outages in a specific neighbourhood call 428-6004 or 1-877-428-6004. Remember that many people may be calling this number. Do not hang up; calls are taken in the order they are received.