Be Prepared for Extreme Weather

It’s hurricane season and the City of St. John’s is asking everyone to do their part to be prepared for extreme weather events.

72 Hour Rule

In the event of an emergency, please be prepared to be on your own for 72 hours. ​For information on personal preparedness visit GetPrepared.ca.

During major storms, the focus of City crews is to maintain access to streets so emergency vehicles (Fire/Police/Ambulance) and utility crews can respond to emergencies. If you are prepared to be on your own for 72 hours, this allows time for first responders and utility companies to attend to emergency calls and assist those who are in danger.

Report Hazards

If you encounter a road or sidewalk hazard during a storm such as a downed tree, object, or a power line, it is important that you stay away from the area.

• Report any road or hazard to the City by contacting Access St. John’s at 311 or 754-CITY (2489), or by using the 311 St. John's app, or email access@stjohns.ca
• Downed power lines, outages or poles can be reported directly to Newfoundland Power online or by phone 1-800-474-5711

Prepare Your Home and Property

• Prepare your emergency kit
• Follow local weather forecasts for warnings and advisories
• Be aware of all local emergency numbers
• Inspect trees on your property for dead, broken or hanging branches which could pose a hazard
• Secure outdoor items that are a potential hazard in high wind
• Know where the main water valve shut-off is in your home
• Keep all household drains free from debris
• Ensure sump pumps are in working order
• Ensure you have easy access to clean drinking water and non-perishable food items
• If you have medication, ensure you have enough to last 72 hours
• Test your smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly
• If you have a generator, fuel and test to ensure it is available if needed. Ensure an adequate supply of fuel is on hand
• Use flashlights, rather than candles and have a good supply of batteries; if you use candles, don't leave them unattended 

City Preparations

When a hurricane or tropical storm is in the forecast, City preparations include:

• Reviewing forecast updates frequently to assist in planning
• Keeping residents informed via website, social media and media briefings as required
• Fueling and preparing equipment for immediate response, including trucks, loaders and graders
• Stocking vehicles with signs and readying barricades in case street closures are needed
• Removing known tree concerns
• Preparing sandbags and clearing debris from catch basins and culverts
• Inspecting rivers and removing debris to prevent water flow blockages
• Informing contractors working with the City to secure their sites