Evacuation Plan
The Township’s Evacuation Plan is set out below. It is expected that the plan will be refined over the next six to eight months.
Part 1 – Emergency Evacuation Plan
1. Introduction
There are two types of evacuations, Precautionary and Mandatory Evacuation:
Precautionary Evacuation occurs when it is recommended to evacuate within a certain perimeter usually a building or a block until the initial situation in contained.
Mandatory Evacuation takes place when it is determined by the Emergency Control Group that there is an absolute need to evacuate an area, usually on a large-scale, possibly for a long period of time (i.e. for more than 24 hours).
For the purpose of this Evacuation Plan, the definition that shall set the plan, or part of this plan, in motion shall be Mandatory Evacuation.
Evacuation may result in a tremendous psychological effect on those persons directly affected. Adequate communication with the people involved is essential and shall include explaining that an evacuation is pending, what they shall be required to do and when they shall be required to react if an evacuation is issued. The economic effect of closing down industry for even a short period of time is enormous and can be measured in the millions of dollars in lost revenue. A decision to evacuate should only be made when absolutely necessary.
First response services alone cannot be expected to deal with a large-scale evacuation and relocation of residents. An effective response will require participation and cooperation between municipal services, industry, and volunteer services as outlined in the Township of Alberton Emergency Plan and this Plan.
2. Potential Community Hazards which may Necessitate Evacuation
The following events – which list is not exhaustive and which events are not listed in any particular order of risk – are considered potential community hazards within the Township of Morley and surrounding areas which may require mandatory evacuation:
- severe windstorm, tornado;
- road, highway or rail incident involving dangerous goods spill, fire and/or explosion;
- snow/ice storm with power outage;
- heavy rain, flooding;
- rupture of vessel or piping containing propane, natural gas or other volatile materials under pressure; and
- forest fire.
3. Objective
The objective of this Evacuation Plan is to provide a vehicle through which a timely and effective evacuation and reception of people can be achieved.