For Immediate Release
2003-08-14
For further information contact:
Sheila Hickey, Director Strategic Initiatives & Communications, 532-6552
CITY UPDATES EMERGENCY SITUATION (Aug 14, 8:30 p.m.)
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BLACKOUT HELP
EMERGENCY TIPS
Here are some emergency power-out tips from your health unit, city police, and fire & rescue services.
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Update from the Municipal Control Group (MCG)
We still have no indication of when power will be restored.
The outage is affecting the sewage pumping system in City central and as a result we are forced to release sewage overflow into the Cataraqui River Although this is mainly affecting the central part of the city, it is anticipated that the East and West end will be affected if the outage continues. . It is critical that all residents avoid flushing toilets and disposing anything into the sewage system.
Please use water for drinking purposes only. Our drinking water is safe however it must be conserved.
The MCG will also consider necessary action to ensure a safe supply of drinking water to the rural area in the event of an extended outage. Information will be provided as the situation progresses.
The MCG has instructed staff to establish a Citizen's Inquiry Centre so residents can call to get general information and avoid improper use of Emergency lines.
It is expected that the Citizen's Centre will be established within the next few hours and the number will be broadcast at that time.
No shelters are currently open and the need for shelters is being assessed.
The MCG adjourned and will reconvene at 2200hrs. Information updates will be provided every hour on the half hour.
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