Officials Urge Caution During Flooding

The Emergency Management Office urges Nova Scotians to use caution in preparing for possible flooding, and in cleaning up from flooding.

Heavy rains caused flooding in several communities over the weekend, and Environment Canada has issued rainfall warnings for much of the province for tonight, April 6 and into Tuesday, April 7. Rainfall in the amount of 25 to 40 millimetres is forecast along the Atlantic coast, with lesser amounts through the rest of Nova Scotia.

High water levels caused problems over the weekend in Halifax Regional Municipality, the Annapolis Valley, the Truro area and Oxford.

The Emergency Management Office advises residents who live in any area prone to flooding to take appropriate precautions. Preventive measures include moving furniture and personal property away from possible flood water, and securing property that might be swept away or damaged by a flood.

"We're working closely with municipal authorities and other provincial departments to ensure the safety of Nova Scotians, and we're asking Nova Scotians to do their part too," said Craig MacLaughlan, chief executive officer and deputy head, Emergency Management Office.

People should use caution walking beside rivers and streams, as fast-moving water may have weakened banks. Motorists should avoid driving through floodwaters because there may be washouts on some roads.

Residents using well water are encouraged to ensure they have access to drinking water in case their regular supply is unavailable or becomes contaminated.

In the event of a flood:

• Listen to the radio. Local authorities will issue instructions for those living in the affected areas
• Know how to turn off water, gas and electricity in case instructed to by local officials. If the main power box is not in a dry, safe area, do not try to turn off the electricity. Contact Nova Scotia Power at 428-6004 or 1-877-428-6004 for instructions
• Do not use well water for drinking, cooking or bathing until the water has been tested and it has been declared safe to use Contact local Environment offices at 1-877-936-8476 with questions about safe drinking water.

After a flood, the two most important concerns are safety and sanitation:

• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads. Right after a storm, floodwaters are at their most dangerous. It only takes six inches of rapidly moving water to knock people off their feet
• Do not reconnect gas or electrical supplies. Arrange for qualified personnel to inspect and connect these services
• Leave and contact the gas company immediately if gas is smelled
• Check carefully for signs of damage, broken glass and other debris
• Some items should be discarded after a flood. Items such as mattresses, pillows, sofas and upholstered furniture that have been soaked with flood water are no longer safe from harmful bacteria
• Any food that has come in contact with flood water should also be discarded. This includes fresh or frozen food, food in boxes or jars, all bottled drinks and any cans that show signs of damage.

For more information on preparing for a flood, visit the Emergency Management Office website at www.gov.ns.ca/emo .