HAMILTON, ON – August 30, 2005 – The City of Hamilton is asking residents and businesses to use extra caution in the event of severe winds and rain resulting from the remnants of Hurricane Katrina.
Katrina’s location and resulting precipitation amounts are dependent on the track of the storm, which is only predicted at this time. The amount of precipitation and strength of winds are unpredictable with this type of event and forecasts can change quickly.
In the event of outdoor flooding
Adults are asked to exercise caution and keep children away from water bodies, including lakes and streams at this time.
In the event of road closures due to flooding or damage from strong winds, please monitor local media outlets for updated traffic reports.
Flooding in homes and businesses
Flooding inside your home or business can present many hazards:
Electrical Hazards
In any flooding situation, be aware of electrical hazards associated with submerged live wires, electrical equipment, and water-damaged appliances and devices. Wait until the water recedes before you begin clean up. Shut off the main box if you decide to walk in the water. If uncertain, do not proceed until a qualified electrician has assessed the situation.
Any appliance that has been partially or wholly immersed in water may be an electrical hazard. A qualified service technician should be contacted before the appliance is cleaned and put back into service.
Health Hazards
Since flood water may be contaminated, wear rubber boots and gloves to minimize skin contact. Do not smoke, eat or touch your face while in a flooded area. If you receive an open wound while working in a flooded area, seek medical attention immediately.
Do not allow children or pets near flooded areas
Remember that flooded areas will be slippery, even after the water recedes
In almost all cases of basement flooding, city tap water will remain safe. However, whether you have city or well water, do not turn on the faucets below flood level until the water recedes. If you think that your well water may have been contaminated, call the Health Department. Do not use water that may not be safe for any reason. To disinfect, boil in a clean container for at least 2 minutes.
If a natural gas odour is present, do not touch any electrical fixtures, telephones or switches – any spark may ignite the gas line. Leave immediately, leaving the doors open to ventilate, and call the Fire Department and the gas company from a safe place. Do not light a match or use any open flame on your way out.
Power Outages
For residents without power: The recommended lighting source in a residence without power is a flashlight. If using candles use them safely and cautiously, being careful not to leave them unattended.
For apartment building owners, managers, or supervisors in buildings where the power or hydro is off: If your life safety systems (e.g. sprinklers and fire alarms) are not functioning, you must follow procedures in your fire safety plan. The procedures include doing hourly rounds and documenting those rounds.
If your home is equipped with an electrically powered smoke alarm, we recommend you also install a battery powered smoke alarm as a backup in the event of a power outage.
Residents who do encounter flooding in their basement can request a disconnection of their hydro service from their service provider (Horizon Utilities Corp and Hydro One as the case may be).
Fire Hazards
If you must use candles for lighting, ensure they are placed in secure candleholders, away from children, pets, drapes and open windows.
Make sure your stove oven and elements are turned off and nothing has been left on top of the stove so that nothing catches fire when the power comes back on.
In the event of smoke or fire, call 9-1-1.
Wind Hazards
Residents and business owners are asked to be aware of the hazards of high winds, such as falling trees and hydro lines, and remove anything on their properties or balconies that might become a projectile due to high winds.
Waste Collection
Extra thought should be given when placing waste materials at the curb.
The City encourages residents to note the following suggestions:
Ensure all recyclable materials are secured in your blue box
Ensure all garbage containers are sealed properly
Wait until the following week if your blue box is only half full
Waste materials that escape their container should be collected and placed out next week on your scheduled waste collection day.
For other questions or concerns please call 905 546-CITY (2489).
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Media Contact:
Brent Browett
Acting General Manager, Hamilton Emergency Services (HES)
Office 905-905-546-2424 Ext. 7741, Cell 905-961-9131
Pager 905-524-4570
bbrowett@hamilton.ca