Emergency Response Plan

Lucan Biddulph, Ontario · adopted 2019-12-17

This is the exact embedded text of the captured official document. Snapshot 0275da981097 · verified 2026-06-10 · original document · archived snapshot · unofficial consolidation, the official version is held by the municipal clerk.

TOWNSHIP OF LUCAN BIDDULPH EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN DATE OF ISSUE: December 2014 UPDATED: December 2023 TOWNSHIP OF LUCAN BIDDULPH EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS SUBJECT PAGE Record of Amendments 1 Distribution List 2 Foreword 3 Introduction 4 Aim 5 Municipal Tasks 6 Emergency Site Management 8 Community Control Group (CCG) 9 CCG Alerting System 12 CCG Operations 12 Declaration/Termination of Emergency 13 Responsibilities of Municipal Officials 16 Responsibilities of Supporting Agencies/Officials 29 Casualty Management 31 Population Evacuation 31 Communications/Media Plan 31 Flood Control 32 Special Hazards 32 County Assistance 33 Provincial Assistance 33 Other Assistance 33 Exercising the Plan 35 Review and Amendments 35 1 AMENDMENTS TO THE TOWNSHIP OF LUCAN BIDDULPH EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN AMENDMENT NUMBER AMENDED BY DATE IMPLEMENTED REMARKS / INITIALS 2 TOWNSHIP OF LUCAN BIDDULPH DISTRIBUTION LIST TOWNSHIP Mayor - 1 copy Deputy Mayor - 1 copy Members of Council - 1 each CAO - 9 copies Public Works Manager - 1 copy Fire Chief - 3 copies Operations Centre - 2 copies CEMC - 1 copy Spare - 4 copies EXTERNAL Warden of Middlesex County - 1 copy County Administrator - 1 copy County EOC copy - 1 copy County Engineer - 1 copy O.P.P. Detachment - 4 copies Neighbouring Municipalities - 6 copies (1 copy each) Thames Valley District School Board - 1 copy London District Catholic School Board - 1 copy Thames Emergency Medical Services - 1 copy Central Ambulance Communication Centre - 1copy Emergency Management Ontario - 1 copy (electronic copy) EMO Area Officer - 1copy FM 96 London - 1 copy CFPL FM London - 1 copy CFPL TV London - 1 copy CKSL Radio London - 1 copy CJBK Radio London - 1 copy BX 93 Radio London - 1 copy Radio Q97.5 - 1 copy Grand Total (50) 3 TOWNSHIP OF LUCAN BIDDULPH EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN FOREWORD This plan has been prepared to assign responsibilities and to guide the immediate actions of key officials in the first critical hours after the onset of an emergency in the Township of Lucan Biddulph. This plan has been adopted through By-Law No. 71-2019 passed on December 17th, 2019 under the legal authority of The Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990 Chapter E.9, as amended 2006 It is essential that all concerned are aware of its provisions and that every official and service be prepared to carry out their assigned functions and responsibilities in an emergency. Municipal services are to review this plan on a regular basis and keep up to date their own procedures for handling emergencies. Dated at Lucan, Ontario, this 27th day of December, 2023 Mayor Clerk 4 TOWNSHIP OF LUCAN BIDDULPH EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN INTRODUCTION 1. Emergencies are defined as situations or the threat of impending situations caused by forces of nature, accidents or an intentional act that constitutes a danger of major proportions to life and property. They affect public safety, meaning health, welfare and property, as well as the environment and economic health of the Township of Lucan Biddulph. The population of the Township of Lucan Biddulph is 4,187 residents. (2006 Census Canada) 2. In order to protect residents, businesses and visitors, the Township of Lucan Biddulph requires a coordinated emergency response by a number of agencies under the direction of the Community Control Group. These are distinct arrangements and procedures from the normal, day-to-day operations carried out by emergency services. When an emergency situation can be handled successfully by the emergency services responding; that is Fire Departments, EMS, the Ontario Provincial Police and the Public Works Department, they will, and are authorized to carry out their respective responsibilities in so doing without delay. When, in the judgment of Members of Council or of Fire, Police, or Works authorities on the spot, an emergency situation requires additional resources beyond those available to the emergency services, or calls for resources or services that will commit the Township to major expense, they will recommend the immediate activation of this emergency response plan. 3. The Township of Lucan Biddulph Emergency Management Program Committee developed this emergency response plan. Every official, municipal department and agency must be prepared to carry out assigned responsibilities in an emergency. The response plan has been prepared to provide key officials, agencies and departments of the Township of Lucan Biddulph important information related to: - Arrangements, services and equipment; and - Roles and responsibilities during an emergency In addition, it is important that residents, businesses and interested visitors be aware of its provision. Copies of the Emergency Response Plan may be viewed at the Municipal Office and on the Municipal Website at www.lucanbiddulph.on.ca Some information in the document may not be available to the public due to security or confidentiality reasons. For more information, please contact the Municipal Offices at: 270 Main Street, P.O. Box 190 Lucan, ON N0M 2J0 Phone: 227-4491 Fax: 227-4998 5 AUTHORITY 4. As enabled by the Emergency Management Act (EMA) this emergency response plan and its elements have been: - Issued under the authority of the Township of Lucan Biddulph By-law # 57-2007 - Filed with Emergency Management Ontario, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services 5. The Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990 Chapter E.9, as amended 2006 is the legal authority for this emergency response plan in Ontario and is the primary authority enabling passage of the by-law formulating this emergency response plan which will govern the provision of necessary services during an emergency. This plan also prescribes procedures under and the manner in which municipal employees and other persons will respond to an emergency. Important measures enabled under the legislation and which form part of this plan, are: a. Authorization for municipal employees to take appropriate action before formal declaration of an emergency; b. Specifying procedures to be taken for the safety and/or evacuation of persons in an emergency area; c. Designating other Members of Council who may exercise powers and perform the duties of the Head of Council under the emergency response plan during the absence of the Mayor; d. Obtaining materials, equipment and supplies for use in managing the emergency; e. Establishing committees and designating employees to be responsible for reviewing the emergency response plan, for training employees in their functions and for implementing the emergency response plan during an actual emergency; f. The expenditure of monies associated with the upkeep and implementation of the plan; and g. Such other measures as are considered necessary in implementing the emergency response plan. AIM 6. The aim of the plan is to make provision for the extraordinary arrangements and measures that may have to be taken to safeguard property and the health, safety, welfare, environment and economic health of the residents, businesses and visitors of the Township of Lucan Biddulph when faced with an emergency. 6 It enables a centralized controlled and coordinated response to emergencies in the Township of Lucan Biddulph, and meets the legislated requirements of the Emergency Management Act. Emergencies can occur within the Township of Lucan Biddulph, and the most likely are: Tornadoes during the April to October Tornado Season, Windstorms, Snowstorms/Blizzards, Ice/Sleet Storms, Hazardous Materials-Fixed Site, Hazardous Materials-Transportation Incidents, Critical Infrastructure Failure, Petroleum / Gas Pipeline Emergencies, Fires/Explosions, Human Health Emergencies and Epidemics, and Water Quality Emergencies. MUNICIPAL TASKS 7. Municipal Tasks are: a. Response - the earliest possible recognition of and response to the emergency by all services that may be required; b. Control - the earliest possible establishment of overall control of emergency operations by local government authority; c. Crowd Convergence - the earliest possible establishment of controls to minimize crowd convergence and to maintain order at the site so that emergency operations are not impeded and additional casualties are prevented; d. Evacuation - assessment of potential danger to the residents and the evacuation of personnel if necessary. Such evacuation will likely require the establishment of a reception centre and the provision of a Registration and inquiry services; e. Rescue - the rescue of trapped or incapacitated persons and the provision of First Aid at the site; f. Casualties - the provision of controlled evacuation and appropriate distribution of casualties to hospitals; g. Emergency Social Services - the provision where necessary of such essential social services as may be required for persons affected by the incident as well as the emergency services personnel involved; h. Public Information - to make available as early as possible accurate official information to: i. EMO Provincial Operations Centre upon the declaration and termination of an emergency at (1-866-314-0472) and Fax (416-314-0474) 7 ii. The County Warden and adjacent Municipalities; iii. Other officials involved in emergency operations including appropriate senior government agencies; iv. The news media to allay public anxiety and to reduce the number of curious bystanders at the scene; and v. Concerned individuals seeking personal information; i. Recording of Emergency/Disaster Costs - to ensure that a cost record of emergency/disaster consequences is compiled to: i. Aid in the preparation of municipal claims which might arise from Provincially directed assistance to another Township pursuant to the provisions of Section 7(4) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990 Chapter E.9, as amended 2006 and ii. Aid in the preparation of requests for compensation from Provincial or Federal Governments in the event of a major local disaster which might be eligible for such assistance. (Reference should be made to the "Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program" (ODRAP)). 8 EMERGENCY SITE MANAGEMENT Relationship between CCG and Emergency Site Manager (ESM) 8. Depending on the nature of the emergency, and once the Emergency Site Manager has been assigned, the CCG relationship with the Emergency Site Manager is to offer support with equipment, staff and other resources, as required. The CCG will also ensure that the rest of the Community maintains municipal services. Relationship between ESM, and command and control structures of emergency responders. 9. The senior representative for each emergency responder (police, fire, EMS, public works) at the site will consult with the Emergency Site Manager, so as to offer a coordinated and effective response. Regular briefing will be held at the site and chaired by the Emergency Site Manager, so as to establish the manner and process in which the emergency will be managed. 10. In any emergency the emergency services will be at the scene from the outset responding to the situation as it exists. The senior member of the emergency service responsible for operations at the emergency site will act as Emergency Site Manager until such time as the CCG decides that the nature of the emergency dictates a change in this appointment. There may be a need for an on-site "command post" at the scene; if so this will be established as soon as practicable by the Emergency Site Manager to bring together all emergency service elements operating at the scene for coordinated action. The situation may require more than one Emergency Site Manager and command post where more than one emergency site or major function during an emergency exists. 11. If the situation warrants, the Emergency Site Manager will establish an inner and outer perimeter to define the area around the site and control access. The inner perimeter will define the area within which only emergency response personnel are permitted for reasons of safety, preservation of evidence and security of the scene. The outer perimeter will define the limit within which spectators are not permitted. The area between the inner and outer perimeter will likely contain some or all of the following sites: a. a site command post; b. a triage area; c. a staging area; and d. traffic control posts. 12. Depending on the type of emergency a variety of outside agencies will respond to the emergency. They should all report to the on-site command post upon arrival. 9 COMMUNITY CONTROL GROUP 13. When it has been decided to activate this EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN, the emergency operations will be controlled by the officials listed below who will form the Community Control Group (CCG) for the Township. The CCG should not meet at the on- site command post at the scene of the emergency. The CCG will report to the primary Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) located at the Township office. In the event this operations centre cannot be used, then the alternate location at Granton Fire Hall will be used. The emergency response will be directed and controlled by the CCG - a group of officials who are responsible for coordinating the provision of the essential services necessary to minimize the effects of an emergency on the community. The CCG consists of the following officials: a. Mayor b. Deputy Mayor c. CAO d. Clerk e. Emergency Information Officer (EIO); f. Lucan Biddulph and Biddulph Blanshard Fire Chief or Representative; g. Public Works Manager h. Emergency Medical Services (EMS), or alternate; i. Middlesex OPP; j. County Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC); or alternate; k. Facilities Manager or alternate; l. Medical Officer of Health or alternate of Middlesex-London Health Unit. Additional personnel called or added to the CCG may include: a. Telecommunications Coordinator; b. Emergency Management Ontario Representative; c. Ausable Bayfield C.A. or Upper Thames River C.A.; 10 d. Liaison staff from provincial ministries; e. Any other officials, experts or representatives from the public or private sector as deemed necessary by the CCG. The Control Group may function with only a limited number of persons depending upon the emergency. While the CCG may not require the presence of all the people listed as members of the control group, all members of the CCG must be notified. SUPPORT AND ADVISORY STAFF The following staff may be required to provide support, logistics and advice to the CCG: a. Legal Services Representative b. Telecommunication (ARES) Coordinator c. Other Agencies d. County Boards e. School Boards/Separate and Public OPERATING CYCLE 14. Members of the CCG will gather at regular intervals to inform each other of actions taken and problems encountered. The CAO will establish the frequency of meetings and agenda items. Meetings will be kept as brief as possible thus allowing members to carry out their individual responsibilities. The Clerk will maintain the status board and maps and which will be displayed and kept up to date. PRIMARY EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE AND ALTERNATE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE 15. The CCG when alerted will assemble at the Township Office which will be known as the Primary Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) during the emergency. The Municipal CAO is responsible for the readiness of the Emergency Operations Centre or alternate site. In the event the Township Office is untenable the Granton Fire Hall will be the alternate location for the Emergency Operations Centre. 11 ALTERNATES 16. Alternates are designated for CCG appointments having specific responsibility under this plan. The alternate will act for the member in his/her absence during an emergency or during a prolonged emergency to provide relief for the incumbent. The Deputy Mayor will act for the Mayor when the Mayor is not available. When neither the Mayor nor the Deputy Mayor is available, the Member of Council so designated in the Municipal Appointments By-Law will assume the responsibility of Head of Council for purposes of this plan. TELECOMMUNICATION 17. Adequate communications between the emergency site and the Emergency Operations Centre will be essential. Some or all of the following communications means may be used: a. OPP, Fire Department, EMS & Works Department radio links from their on-site representative to their CCG member; b. The closest operating telephone to the emergency location may be utilized if practicable; c. Cellular phones; and d. The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) is prepared to help with mobile radio equipment and volunteer operators, and can be contacted through the O.P.P/ ARES coordinator or Red Cross. 18. The Fire representative who will join the CCG in the emergency will be arranged for by the Fire Chief responsible for Firefighting operations at the emergency site. The Fire Chief, will decide, based on the situation existing, either to join the CCG in person, to send a senior member of the Department, or to request one of the other Fire Chiefs serving the Township to attend. 19. The CCG will need the advice and support of the Medical Officer of Health in any emergency situation. The Mayor at the outset will contact the Medical Officer of Health and, if the situation warrants it, the Medical Officer of Health will provide a Health representative to join the CCG as soon as possible. 20. The Facilities Manager will act as Social Services Member of the CCG to provide coordination in social services matters in the emergency and will coordinate prior planning for emergency social services arrangements. The County Social Services Administrator may be requested to provide a Social Services representative to assist with this responsibility. 12 21. The Economic Development and Communications Officer will act as the Emergency Information Officer (EIO) to the CCG. The Mayor must approve the release of any announcements or news releases. 22. Additional CCG members may need to be drawn from various sources to provide specialist knowledge, advice and support; these might include representatives from the County Administration, or from Provincial Ministries. 23. When the emergency situation calls for close coordination with a neighbouring Township the Mayor may request the Head of Council of the neighboring Township to appoint a representative to join the CCG to assist in mutual support matters. CCG ALERTING SYSTEM/FANOUT SYSTEM 24. A serious emergency situation will usually be first identified by the emergency services that will be among the first on the scene. If the senior on-site Police, Fire, EMS or Public Works representative is satisfied that a serious potential emergency situation exists, he/she will so advise the respective Fire Chief or OPP Supervisor (or designate) who will then consider the advisability of assembling the Community Control Group designated at section 14 above. A decision to assemble the CCG may also be taken by any two of the designated members of the CCG, or in the absence of a designated member, by any of the alternates identified in this plan. When a member decides that the CCG should be called together, he/she will contact the OPP Communications Centre who will initiate the telephone alerting procedure. COMMUNITY CONTROL GROUP OPERATIONS 25. When a working majority of members of the CCG are present at the Municipal Emergency Operations Centre, the Mayor will convene an initial briefing of the CCG at which each member will report on information learned about the emergency situation and will make recommendations on action that should be considered by the CCG. The Mayor, with the advice of the members, may then make a decision to implement this plan and to take action to support the emergency services working at the emergency site and/or action to provide for the safety and welfare of residents and the protection of property in the Township. If it is decided that the CCG should remain in place to control/monitor the emergency situation, the CAO will call the Group into conference session approximately every half hour for brief reports by each member and for discussion of action required, followed by a break to permit members to direct steps to be taken by Municipal services, to contact outside agencies and to develop plans. The responsibilities of the CCG will in most situations be carried out by Group assessment of events as they occur, leading to agreement on the action to be taken by Municipal authorities and services. 13 DECLARATION OF AN EMERGENCY Definition of an emergency 26. The EMA defines an emergency as: "emergency" means a situation or an impending situation that constitutes a danger of major proportions that could result in serious harm to persons or substantial damage to property and that is caused by the forces of nature, a disease or other health risk, an accident or an act whether intentional or otherwise; ("situation d'urgence") Emergency Notification Procedure 27. Where a threat of an impending emergency exists, the CCG will be notified and placed on standby. 28. Upon receipt of a warning of a real or potential emergency, the responding department will immediately contact the municipal office (or after hours contact number) to request that the notification system be activated. Upon receipt of the warning, the municipal staff will notify all members of the Community Control Group. Upon being notified, it is the responsibility of all CCG officials to notify their alternates, staff and volunteer organizations. Activating the Emergency Operations Centre . 29. The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) can be activated for any emergency for the purpose of managing an emergency, maintaining services to the community and supporting the emergency site. A Declared Community Emergency Where serious and extensive steps to protect property and the health and safety of residents are deemed necessary to cope with emergency conditions, the Mayor may, on the advice of the other members of the CCG, call for a formal declaration that an emergency exists under the provisions of Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990 Chapter E.9, as amended 2006 s.4 (1) states that "The head of council of a Township may declare that an emergency exists in the Township or in any part thereof and may take such action and make such orders as he or she considers necessary and are not contrary to law to implement the emergency response plan of the TOWNSHIP and to protect, property and the health, safety and welfare of the inhabitants of the emergency area". The Mayor will notify Emergency Management Ontario at (1- 866-314-0472) and fax when a declaration of an emergency is made. The Mayor should also notify the Warden of the County, adjacent Municipalities and the Public. 30. The Mayor of the Township of Lucan Biddulph should carefully assess the situation prior to making a decision to declare an emergency. The Mayor should ensure that, 14 a. the information received as to the seriousness of the situation has been confirmed; b. the situation involves an extended evacuation, or a significant degree of damage, loss of life or threat to the environment; and c. additional resources of personnel or equipment are required to support the emergency services. A formal declaration of a state of emergency will, a. invoke the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990 Chapter E.9, as amended 2006 and provide for protection from personal liability; b. provide authority to expend funds without reference to council; and c. provide coverage under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board for registered volunteers. A Declared Community Emergency 31. The Mayor or Acting Mayor, as the Head of Council, is responsible for declaring an emergency. This decision is made in consultation with other members of the CCG. Upon declaring an emergency, the Mayor will notify: a. Emergency Management Ontario; b. Township Council; c. County Warden; d. Public; e. Neighbouring community officials, as required; f. Local Member of the Provincial Parliament (MPP); g. Local Member of Federal Parliament (MP) A community emergency may be terminated at any time by: a. Mayor or Acting Mayor; or b. Town Council; or c. Premier of Ontario When terminating an emergency, the Mayor will notify: a. Emergency Management Ontario; b. Township Council c. County Warden; d. Public; e. Neighbouring community officials, as required; f. Local Member of the Provincial Parliament (MPP); g. Local Member of Federal Parliament (MP) 15 Request for assistance 32. Assistance may be requested from the county at any time by contacting the County Warden. The request shall not be deemed to be a request that the county assume authority and control of the emergency. Community Control Group Responsibility 33. The members of the Community Control Group (CCG) are responsible for the following actions or decisions: a. Calling out and mobilizing their emergency services, agency and equipment; b. Coordinating and directing their service and ensuring that any action necessary for the mitigation of the effects of the emergency are taken, provided they are not contrary to law; c. Determining if the location of the EOC and composition of the CCG are appropriate; d. Advising the Mayor as to whether the declaration of an emergency is recommended; e. Advising the Mayor on the need to designate all or part of theTownship as an emergency area; f. Ensuring that an Emergency Site Manager (ESM) is appointed; g. Ensuring support to the ESM by offering equipment, staff and resources, as required; h. Ordering, coordinating and/or overseeing the evacuation of inhabitants considered to be in danger; i. Discontinuing utilities or services provided by public or private concerns, i.e. hydro, water, gas, closing down a private business or public area; j. Arranging for services and equipment from local agencies not under community control i.e. private contractors, industry, volunteer agencies, service clubs; k. Notifying, requesting assistance from and/or liaison with various levels of government and any public or private agencies not under community control, as considered necessary; l. Determining if additional volunteers are required and if appeals for volunteers are warranted; m. Determining if additional transport is required for evacuation and transport of persons and/or supplies; n. Ensuring that pertinent information regarding the emergency is promptly forwarded to the Emergency Information Officer and Citizen Inquiry Supervisor, for dissemination to the media and public; o. Determining the need to establish advisory groups and/or sub-committees/working groups for any aspect of the emergency including recovery; p. Authorizing expenditure of money required dealing with the emergency; q. Notifying the services, agency or group under their direction, of the termination of the emergency; r. Maintaining a log outlining decisions made and actions taken, and submitting a summary of the log to the CAO within one week of the termination of the emergency, as required; 16 s. Participating in the debriefing following the emergency; t. Addressing the emotional needs of the effected public and staff through Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) assistance. EMERGENCY RESPONSE SYSTEM The individual responsibilities of the Community Control Group (CCG) 34. MAYOR: The Mayor, with the advice of the CCG, will be responsible in the Emergency for: a. Participating in meetings of the CCG, making decisions, determining priorities and giving direction to the heads of Municipal services; b. Requesting assistance from neighbouring municipalities, from the County and from senior levels of government when required; c. Advising the Medical Officer of Health of the emergency situation and obtaining Health advice and assistance in dealing with the emergency; d. Requesting assistance from volunteer and other outside agencies not under Municipal control as required; e. Declaring an emergency within the designated area; f. Declaring that the emergency has terminated (Note: Council may also terminate the emergency); g. Notifying the Emergency Management Ontario of the declaration of an emergency, and termination of the emergency; h. Ensuring the members of council are advised of the declaration and termination of an emergency, and kept informed of the emergency situation; i. Approving news releases and public announcements; and j. Maintain personal log of actions taken. 35. DEPUTY MAYOR: The Deputy Mayor will be responsible in an emergency for: a. Acting as Head of Council in the absence of the Mayor; b. Relieving the Mayor during a protracted emergency; 17 c. Acting as the Emergency Information Officer; and d. Other responsibilities as assigned by the Mayor. 36. CAO: The CAO, upon learning of a potential emergency, will in consultation with another member of the CCG, consider the possible need to assemble the CCG and, if warranted, will initiate the fan-out procedure for assembling the CCG as outlined in section 25 of this plan. The CAO will decide if the alternate location for the CCG should be used and will so advise when initiating the assembly procedure when this is necessary. The CAO will proceed to the Emergency Operations Centre to assume the following responsibilities in the emergency: a. Activating the emergency notification system; b. Ensuring liaison with the OPP regarding security arrangements for the EOC; c. As the Operations Officer, coordinating all operations within the Emergency Operations Centre, including the scheduling and chairing of regular meetings; d. Advising the Mayor on policies and procedures, as appropriate; e. Approving, in conjunction with the Mayor, major announcements and media releases prepared by the Emergency Information Officer, in consultation with the CCG; f. Organizing the Emergency Operations Centre and arranging for the provision of equipment and data; g. Ensuring the communication link is established between the CCG and the Emergency Site Manager (ESM); h. Calling out additional Township staff to provide assistance, as required; i. Maintaining a record of actions taken by the Mayor and the CCG in dealing with the emergency; j. Compiling records of costs incurred as a result of emergency action; k. Arranging for periodic relief of CCG members and support staff in a protracted emergency; l. Assume duties of Human Resources Manager (Section 52); and m. Maintain personal log of actions taken. 18 37. FIRE CHIEF(S): The nature of the emergency may require that the fire chief(s) be totally committed to the on site operations. Depending on the on site situation he or his representative would join the CCG when assembled at the Emergency Operations Centre to assume the following responsibilities: a. Providing the CCG with information and advice on firefighting and rescue matters; b. Depending on the nature of the emergency, assign an Interim Emergency Site Manger and inform the CCG; c. Establish an ongoing communication link with senior fire officials at the scene of the emergency; d. Inform the Mutual Aid Fire Coordinator and/or initiate mutual aid arrangements for the provision of additional firefighters and equipment, if needed; e. Determine if additional or special equipment is needed and recommending possible sources of supply, e.g. breathing apparatus, protective clothing; f. Provide assistance to other community departments and agencies and be prepared to take charge of or contribute to non-firefighting operations if necessary, e.g. rescue, first aid, casualty collection, evacuation; g. Contacting the utility and natural gas providers or Petroleum Companies for assistance in the emergency if needed; h. Establishing, with the appropriate Ministry, and industry representatives, procedures to deal with special hazards such as hazardous material spills, explosions or noxious fumes; i. Arranging that a record is kept of outside assistance called for by Fire Departments involved; and j. Maintain personal log of actions taken. 38. MIDDLESEX OPP: Upon learning of a potential emergency, the OPP will contact the municipality and implement the alerting procedure. The OPP will then report to, or send a representative to, the Emergency Operations Centre to assume the following responsibilities as Police member of the CCG: a. Activating the emergency notification systems, and ensuring designated members of the CCG are notified; 19 b. Notifying necessary emergency and community services, as required; c. Establishing a site command post with communications to the EOC; d. Depending on the nature of the emergency, assign an Interim Site Manager and inform the CCG; e. Establish an ongoing communications link with the senior police official at the scene of the emergency; f. Establish the outer perimeter in the vicinity of the emergency to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles and restrict access to all but essential emergency personnel: g. Provide traffic control staff to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles; h. Alert persons endangered by the emergency and coordinating evacuation procedures; i. Ensuring the protection of life and property and the provision of law and order; j. Providing police services in EOC, reception centers, temporary morgues, and other facilities, as require; k. Notifying the coroner of fatalities; l. Ensuring liaison with other community, provincial and federal police agencies, as required; m. Providing an Emergency Site Manager, if designated by CCG; and n. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 39. THE PUBLIC WORKS MANAGER: Upon learning of a potential emergency, the Public Works Manager will consider the possible need for assembling the CCG and, if warranted, will contact the municipal office and request the CCG be assembled. The Public Works Manager will alert Works Department staff and will report to the Emergency Operations Centre to assume the following responsibilities: a. Providing the CCG with information and advice on engineering and public works matters; b. Depending on the nature of the emergency, assign an Interim Site Manager and inform the CCG; 20 c. Establishing an ongoing communications link with the senior public works official at the scene of the emergency; d. Ensuring liaison with the public works representative from the neighbouring community(s) to ensure a coordinated response; e. Ensuring provision of engineering assistance; f. Ensuring construction, maintenance and repair of municipal roads; g. Ensuring the maintenance of sanitary sewage and water systems; h. Providing equipment for emergency pumping operations; i. Ensuring liaison with the fire chief concerning emergency water supplies for fire fighting purposes; j. Providing emergency potable water, supplies and sanitation facilities to the Requirements of the Medical Officer of Health; k. Discontinuing any public works service to any resident, as required, and restoring these services when appropriate; l. Ensuring liaison with public utilities to disconnect any service representing a hazard and/or to arrange for the provision of alternate services or functions; m. Providing public works vehicles and equipment as required by any other emergency services; carrying out the responsibilities of the Municipal Flood Coordinator in a flood emergency and maintaining liaison with the appropriate Conservation Authority; n. Ensuring liaison with the conservation authority regarding flood control, conservation and environmental matters and being prepared to take preventative action; o. Re-establishing essential Municipal services at the end of the emergency period; and p. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 40. MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH OR PUBLIC HEALTH UNIT REPRESENTATIVE: The Medical Officer of Health will have the following duties: a. Activating the CCG Notification System in the event of a health emergency; b. Acting as a coordinating link for all emergency health services at the CCG; c. Liaising with the Ontario Ministry of Health & Long-Term Care, Public Health Branch; 21 d. Depending on the nature of the emergency, assigning an interim Emergency Site Manager (ESM) and informing the CCG; e. Establishing an ongoing communications link with the senior health official at the scene of the emergency; f. Liaising with senior EMS representatives, hospital officials, relevant health care organizations (i.e. Community Care Access Centre, long-term care facilities), the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and relevant government agencies; g. Providing authoritative instructions on health and safety matters to the public through the EIO; h. Coordinating the response to disease related emergencies or anticipated emergencies, such as epidemics, according to the Ministry of Health & Long-Term Care policies; i. Coordinating care of citizens at home and in reception centres during an emergency; j. Liaising with voluntary and private health care agencies, as required, for augmenting and coordinating public health resources; k. Coordinating efforts towards prevention and control of the spread of disease during an emergency; l. Notifying the CCG regarding the need for potable water supplies and sanitation facilities; m. Liaising with the Facilities Manager on areas of mutual concern regarding health services in reception centres; n. Providing advice to the Mayor/Reeve and the CCG on health matters; o. When advised by emergency services of an emergency situation involving hazardous substances or any threat to public health, providing advice for the safety of emergency service workers and activities to reduce the adverse effects on public health; p. Directing precautions in regard to food and water supplies when warranted; q. Arranging for mass immunizations where required; r. Notifying other agencies and senior levels of government about health related matters in the emergency; and s. Maintain a personal log of all actions taken. 22 41. FACILITIES MANAGER: The person designated as Facilities Manager of the CCG, assisted if possible by a Social Services Representative provided by the County Manager of Social Services, will assume responsibility in an emergency for: a. Ensuring the well-being of residents who have been displaced from their homes by arranging emergency lodging, clothing, food supplies, registration and inquiries and personal services. Usually this individual is a key link with other volunteer organizations such as the Red Cross; b. Ensuring the well-being of residents who have been displaced from their homes; c. Supervising the opening and operation of temporary and/or long-term reception evacuee centers, and ensuring they are adequately staffed; d. Ensuring liaison with the OPP with respect to the designation of reception centers which can be opened on short notice; e. Liaison with the Medical Officer of Health on areas of mutual concern regarding operations in evacuee centers; f. Ensuring that representatives of the Board of Education and/or Separate School Boards are notified; g. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 42. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS) REPRESENTATIVE: The Emergency Medical Services Representative is responsible for: a. Providing information on patient care activities and casualty movement from the emergency site; b. Establishing an ongoing communications link with the EMS official(s) at the scene of the emergency; c. Liaising and obtaining EMS resources from the Ministry of Health & Long-Term Care - Emergency Health Services - Ambulance Service Branch (Senior Field Manager or on-call Duty Manager) and from other municipalities, if required; 23 d. Liaising with the Central Ambulance Communications Centre (CACC) regarding patient status, destination and department case load; e. Organizing the EMS response to assist and coordinate the actions of other social service agencies' EMS branches (i.e. St. John Ambulance, Canadian Red Cross, and other transportation providers); f. Advising the CCG if other means of transportation are required for large-scale responses; g. Obtain EMS Mutual Aid assistance as required for both land and air-based patient transport; h. Assist with the emergency evacuation when required; i. Ensure balanced EMS coverage is available at all times throughout the community; j. Liaising with the receiving hospitals; k. Liaising with Police, Fire, Coroner and the Medical Officer of Health, as required; and l. Maintaining a log of all decisions made and actions taken by him/her during the emergency. 43. COMMUNITY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR (CEMC) OR ALTERNATE: The Community Emergency Management Coordinator is the main link on a regular basis with EMO. The CEMC's main responsibilities consist of: a. Activating and arranging the Emergency Operations Centre; b. Ensuring that security is in place for the EOC and registration of CCG members; c. Ensuring that all members of the CCG have necessary plans, resources, supplies, maps, and equipment; d. Providing advice and clarifications about the implementation details of the Emergency Response Plan; e. Assisting the Telecommunications Coordinator; f. Ensuring liaison with community support agencies (e.g. St. John Ambulance, Canadian Red Cross); g. Ensuring volunteer coordination and liaison; 24 h. Ensuring that the operating cycle is met by the CCG and related documentation is maintained and kept for future reference; i. Addressing any action items that may result from the activation of the Emergency Response Plan and keep CCG informed of implementation needs; j. Maintaining the records and logs for the purpose of the debriefings and post- emergency reporting that will be prepared; and k. Maintaining a log of all actions taken by him/her during the course of the emergency. 44. EMERGENCY INFORMATION OFFICER (EIO): The Emergency Information Officer, as indicated in section 22, will assume responsibility in the emergency for: a. Preparing public announcements and news releases concerning the emergency for approval by the Mayor; b. Arranging with media representatives for assistance in collecting and forwarding warnings and directions to the public that have been approved by the Mayor; c. Issuing news releases approved by the Mayor to the Media; d. Establishing, when such is considered necessary by the CCG, an information centre near but not in the Emergency Operations Centre to which the emergency services can direct members of the public or media representatives seeking information; e. Informing the media of the point of telephone access for the public to reach the registration and inquiry service, if such service is in operation, so that this information can be passed to the public quickly; f. The EIO may be called upon to link with provincial and other inquiry information staff; g. Ensure that appropriate person is supervised and appointed under section 55; h. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. *Note: OPP is prepared to assist the EIO, Mayor, Fire Chief and Medical Officer of Health with media relations. 45. SUPPORT AND ADVISORY STAFF: Other Agencies In an emergency, many agencies may be required to work with the Community Control 25 Group. Others might include Emergency Management Ontario, Ontario Provincial Police, the Office of the Fire Marshal, industry, volunteer groups, conservation authorities, and provincial ministries. The following staff may be required to provide support, logistics and advice to the CCG; 46. CLERK: The Clerk is responsible for assisting the CAO, as required; a. Ensuring all important decisions made and actions taken by the CCG are recorded; b. Ensuring that maps and boards are kept up to date; c. Provide a process for registering CCG members and maintaining a CCG member list; d. Notifying the required support and advisory staff of the emergency, and the location of the Emergency Operations Centre; e. Initiating the opening, operation and staffing of switchboard at the community offices, as the situation dictates, and ensuring operators are informed of CCG members' telephone numbers in the EOC; f. Assuming the responsibilities of the Citizen Inquiry Supervisor; g. Arranging for printing of material, as required; h. Coordinating the provision of clerical staff to assist in the Emergency Operations Centre, as required; i. Upon direction by the Mayor, ensuring that all council and staff are advised of the declaration and termination of the emergency; and j. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 47. UTILITY REPRESENTATIVE - HYDRO ONE: Hydro One (24hr Emergency - 1-800-434-1235) 48. TREASURER: The Treasurer is responsible for: a. Providing information and advice on financial matters as they relate to the emergency; 26 b. Ensuring liaison, if necessary, with the Directors of Finance/Treasurers of other neighbouring communities; c. Ensuring that records of expenses are maintained for future claim purposes; d. Ensuring the prompt payment and settlement of all the legitimate invoices and claims incurred during an emergency; and e. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 49. LEGAL SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE: The Legal Services Representative is responsible for: a. Providing advice to any member of the Community Control Group on legal matters. 50. PURCHASING AGENT: (Public Works Manager) The Purchasing Agent is responsible for: a. Providing and securing of equipment and supplies not owned by the Township; b. Ensuring liaison with purchasing agents of the neighbouring communities, if necessary; and c. Maintaining and updating a list of all vendors (including 24 hour contact numbers) who may be required to provide supplies and equipment. 51. HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER: (CAO) The Human Resources Manager is responsible for: a. Coordinating and processing requests for human resources; b. Coordinating offers of, and appeals for, volunteers with the support of the CCG; c. Selecting the most appropriate site(s) for the registration of human resources; d. Ensuring records of human resources and administrative details, that may involve financial liability, are completed; e. Ensuring that a Volunteer Registration Form is completed, when volunteers are involved and a copy of the form is retained for township records; f. Ensuring identification cards are issued to volunteers and temporary employees, where practical; g. Arranging for transportation of human resources to and from site(s); 27 h. Obtaining assistance, if necessary, from Human Resources Development Canada, as well as other government departments, public and private agencies and volunteer groups; and i. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 52. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION MANAGER: (Public Works) The Public Transportation Manager is responsible for: a. Coordinating the acquisition, distribution and scheduling of various modes of transport (i.e. public transit, school buses, trains, boats, and trucks) for the purpose of transporting persons and/or supplies, as required, by members of the CCG and the support and advisory staff; b. Procuring staff to assist, as required; c. Ensuring that a record is maintained of drivers and operators involved; and d. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 53. TELECOMMUNICATIONS (ARES) COORDINATOR: The Telecommunications Coordinator reports to the Community Emergency Management Coordinator and is responsible for: a. Activating the emergency notification system of the local amateur radio operators group; b. Initiating the necessary action to ensure the ARES functions as effectively as possible, as the situation dictates; c. Ensuring that the emergency communications center is properly equipped and staffed, and working to correct any problems which may arise; d. Maintaining an inventory of community and private sector communications equipment and facilities, which could, in an emergency, be used to augment existing communications systems; e. Making arrangements to acquire additional communications resources during an emergency; and f. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 54. COMMUNITY SPOKESPERSON: The community spokesperson will be appointed by the Community Control Group and is responsible for: 28 a. Giving interviews on behalf of the Community; b. Establishing a communication link and regular liaison with the Emergency Information Officer at the EOC; c. Redirecting all inquiries about decisions made by the CCG and about the emergency as a whole, to the Emergency Information Officer; d. Coordinating media photograph sessions at the scene when necessary and appropriate; e. Coordinating on-scene interviews between the emergency services personnel and the media; and f. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 55. CITIZEN INQUIRY SUPERVISOR: The Citizen Inquiry Supervisor is responsible for: a. Establishing a Citizen Inquiry Service, including the appointment of personnel and designation of telephone lines; b. Informing the Emergency Information Officer of the establishment of the Citizen Inquiry Service and designated telephone numbers; c. Informing the affected emergency services, the CCG and municipal switchboards of the establishment of the Citizen Inquiry Service and designated telephone numbers; d. Ensuring liaison with the Emergency Information Officer to obtain current information on the emergency; e. Responding to, and re-directing inquiries and reports from the public based upon information from the Emergency Information Officer. (Such information may be related to school closings, access routes or the location of reception centers.); f. Responding to and redirecting inquiries pertaining to the investigation of the emergency, deaths, injuries or matters of personnel involved with or affected by the emergency to the appropriate emergency service; g. Responding to and redirecting inquiries pertaining to persons who may be located in reception centers to the registration and inquiry telephone number(s); h. Procuring staff to assist, as required; and i. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 29 56. COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION AND SEPARATE SCHOOL BOARD: The County Board of Education and the Separate School Board are responsible for: a. Providing any school (as appropriate and available) for use as an evacuation or reception centre and a representative(s) to co-ordinate for maintenance, use and operation of the facilities being utilized as evacuation or reception centers; b. Ensuring liaison with the Township as to protective actions to the schools (i.e. implementing school shelter in place procedure and implementing the school evacuation procedure; and c. Maintain a personal log of actions taken. 57. THE MUNICIPAL SUPPORT STAFF: The Township support staff should be organized to carry out the following duties: Assist the EOC operations by: a. Acting as recording secretary to establish a paper trail and record decisions and actions taken; b. Maintain an events display board; and c. Maintain a communications log. d. Answer and maintain a record of all public inquiries; e. Monitor the media broadcasts; f. Register all volunteers; g. Provide essential housekeeping for the EOC. RESPONSIBILITIES OF SUPPORTING AGENCIES/OFFICIALS 58. COUNTY SOCIAL SERVICES: The County Social Services Manager should be contacted as soon as an emergency occurs so that he/she can assist the Township Facilities Manager to: a. Arrange for the opening, operation, direction and supervision of emergency reception centers to provide emergency social services as required; and b. Liaise with volunteer community agencies to assist in humanitarian functions; 30 59. ST. JOHN AMBULANCE: St. John Ambulance has a capability in all areas of First Aid, including Mobile First Aid stations, Ambulance and Medical transport, Nursing and Child Care, and will respond to requests at any time, as well as under emergency and disaster conditions. Also available is an emergency lighting and generator unit, mobile canteen service unit, designed for response under emergency or disaster conditions. These volunteers are on 24-hour call, the response teams are governed by a time lapse of 30-45 minutes. Members must respond to St. John Headquarters, signaled by radio or pager, for assembly and duty assignments. Additional equipment available includes wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and stretchers. Local unit response by up to 50 members has the option to draw on up to 100 members from the surrounding district. Requests for St. John Ambulance services are to be routed through the Fire Communications Centre. 60. CANADIAN RED CROSS: The Red Cross will assist the community in an emergency in the form of a Registration and Inquiry Service as described in the Health Canada "Registration and Inquiry Manual". This service will assist the public in locating immediate relatives who have left their homes as a result of the emergency. Inquiry services may be operated from outside the disaster area in accordance with Red Cross standard operating procedures and may involve the assistance of the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES). When an inquiry service is activated, the Red Cross will arrange that the telephone number(s) to be used by relatives making inquiries is publicized through the Media. 61. HOSPITALS: Area Hospitals are prepared to implement their Medical Disaster Plans as required. The Medical Disaster Plan is activated on the advice of the Police and the Ambulance Services. 62. AMBULANCE SERVICES: The Central Ambulance Communications Centre is responsible for the dispatch of ambulances in the County, on calls from Police, Fire Services and other sources, operating 24 hours per day. An ambulance station is located in the Village of Lucan, 188 George Street. 63. SALVATION ARMY: The Salvation Army has an emergency capability in welfare, short term accommodation, clothing and food services and will respond, within their budgetary capabilities, when requested by the CCG. 31 64. AMATEUR RADIO EMERGENCY SERVICE (ARES): Is the volunteer group which coordinates Amateur radio in the area. They are prepared to establish emergency radio communications for any purpose required including Registration and Inquiry Services and communications between hospitals. 65. SCHOOL BOARDS: Most School Boards have developed emergency preparedness plans. These plans may involve the assembly of a School System Emergency Management Team that will provide direction to School Principals in the event of an emergency. To ensure that they are kept informed about the emergency they may ask to send a liaison officer to the municipal CCG. School Boards may be asked to provide their Board facilities for use during the emergency. CASUALTY MANAGEMENT 66. Arrangements for coping with casualties in an emergency are made jointly by the Ambulance Services and the Hospitals serving the County. The Central Ambulance Communications Centre on calls from Fire and Police authorities will dispatch ambulances. Ambulance, Fire or Police authorities may call upon further assistance from area hospitals in handling mass casualties as the situation warrants. The St. John Ambulance, normally alerted through the Central Ambulance Communications Centre, is prepared to assist with mobile first aid posts and ambulance units when called on. POPULATION EVACUATION 67. It may be necessary in an emergency for the residents of an area of the Township to be temporarily evacuated from their homes for their own welfare and safety. Such a requirement may be of an urgent or short-notice nature caused by an immediate hazard, and decided upon and directed on the spot by Police and/or Fire authorities. A less immediate but probably larger scale evacuation could be decided upon, and directed by, the Community Control Group, as in the case of an impending flood situation. The aim in any such operation will be to care for the evacuated persons, to bring families together and to re-establish residents in their homes as soon as possible. COMMUNICATIONS/MEDIA PLAN 68. Communication, in both the electronic and the information-sharing sense is usually a major problem during most emergencies. Equipment breaks down, frequencies and/or equipment are found to be incompatible, messages are misunderstood and those responding to the emergency forget to pass on or share information. 69. The Township will need media cooperation to provide the CCG with the means to communicate with the public during the emergency. It is thus in our own interest to be prepared to respond to media requests for information. 32 70. Action should be taken by the Emergency Information Officer to establish an Emergency Information Centre (EIC) near to but not in the Emergency Operations Centre Room. The EIC should have telephone and electrical outlets and should provide space for news conferences and briefings. News conferences should be scheduled for both the public and the media. FLOOD CONTROL 71. A flood contingency plan applicable to the Township is maintained by the two Conservation Authorities. SPECIAL HAZARDS (taken from the Community Risk Profile) 72. The Township of Lucan Biddulph has the potential of experiencing an emergency based on any of the following circumstances: a. Tornadoes. b. Winter Storms: Snowstorms, Blizzards, Ice/Sleet Storms. c. Hazardous Materials/Transportation Incidents. d. Fires/Explosion. e. Transportation Accidents (road, rail, air) - people. f. Critical Infrastructure failure defined as the nine categories: Food and Water, Electricity, Telecommunication, Financial Institution, Gas, Oil and Chemical Industries, Transportation, Continuity of Government Services, Public Safety and Security and Health. g. Petroleum/Gas Pipeline Emergencies. h. Human Health Emergencies & Epidemics. 73. There are a few industrial sites in the Township that are considered to present Special Hazards. 74. Preparations to respond to these special hazards require that the EOC be provided with essential data. The following information should be readily available at the EOC: a. Maps identifying the following: i. Transportation routes; 33 ii. Pipeline data; iii. Municipal drains; b. Information sheets on nursing homes; c. Resource Directory. COUNTY ASSISTANCE 75. When the support and assistance of County Services are needed in an emergency situation the Mayor may contact the Warden or the CAO of the County or the County Engineer or County Social Services Manager to request such assistance. PROVINCIAL ASSISTANCE 76. The Mayor may request assistance from the Provincial Government at any time. Locally arranged support such as technical advice from District representatives of the Ministry of the Environment or help from Ministry of Transportation Ontario installations in the County can be arranged directly with local Ministry authorities. Further help from Provincial sources can be requested through the O.P.P. representative with the CCG. In life-threatening situations, requests for assistance will be made directly to Provincial and/or Federal organizations through EMO as soon as possible. 77. In the case of flood control assistance, help from the Ministry of Natural Resources can be requested through, and with the advice of, flood coordination officers of the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority and the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority. OTHER ASSISTANCE 78. Outside organizations prepared to assist in an emergency within their capability and expertise include the following. a. Environment Canada. Environment Canada can provide information on weather conditions as they affect emergency operations. http://weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/warnings/warnings_e.html b. Ministry of the Environment The Ministry of the Environment through their Regional Offices in London or the Toronto "Spills Action Centre" are able to provide advice in handling serious oil and chemical spills and discharges; c. Department of Communications. The London District Office of the Federal Department of Communications is prepared to provide advice and assistance on communication matters in an emergency; 34 d. Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs through their County Office could provide advice with respect to the effect of hazardous vapors on crops and animals; e. Ministry of Natural Resources. The Ministry of Natural Resources through their District Office would act as Lead Ministry for floods or forest fires. f. Emergency Management Ontario. The Chief, Emergency Management Ontario, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, is prepared to provide advice and assistance in an emergency, particularly with matters of Provincial Government Support; g. Insurance Bureau of Canada. A coordinator for the Insurance Bureau of Canada is available in London to organize insurance company action on claims adjustments under emergency conditions; h. Snowmobile Assistance. The Lucan Branch of the Canadian Legion, through the President can assist in organizing snowmobile operator help for the urgent movement of people, medicines and supplies in a serious winter storm; i. Canada Employment. The local Employment Centre can assist by organizing extra emergency workers at a central location; j. Department of National Defence. Land Forces Central Area Support Unit London has limited resources of personnel and equipment. Assistance should be requested through Emergency Management Ontario 1-866-314-0472 as Provincial / Federal costs may be involved; k. Bell Canada / Quadro Communications. Bell Canada and Quadro Communications have Emergency Response Plans for restoration or installation of essential telephone services as well as telephone-equipped vehicles which can be positioned at emergency sites to augment Township communication capabilities; l. Union Gas. Union Gas has Emergency Response Plans and appropriately trained personnel and equipment for restoration of essential gas mains and services and has radio-equipped vehicles which can be positioned at emergency sites to coordinate the activities of Union Gas with other utilities and civic services. Their knowledge, and relay of such to municipal officials, regarding location of gas lines, control points and emergency procedures may be of prime importance in many emergencies; 35 m. Broadcasting Stations. The utilization of the local broadcasting stations may play a very significant role under emergency conditions particularly where Land Line communications are disrupted or overloaded. They can be used to request public cooperation in freeing telephone circuits for emergency use, passing warnings or official status reports to the public, answering mass inquiries, passing instructions to emergency department personnel upon departmental request, requesting public assistance in traffic control problems, and seeking private sources of particular supplies, facilities or skills. They have emergency electrical power; n. Press. The use of the Press will play an important role as a means of giving explicit and perhaps lengthy directions to the public, especially in incidents of some duration like heavy snow emergencies. For example, official releases on actions to take in blizzard conditions may contain detailed information on Utilities precautions, emergency Social Services, Fire, Police, Engineering and Health measures in one concise release. Such releases used as an action checklist are an excellent means of mass communications; o. Conservation Authority. Advice on flood control can be obtained from the Conservation Authority. The Watershed Flood Warning System provides a plan to warn of imminent flood conditions. This plan lists Municipal Flood Coordinators and alternates in each Township of the watershed; EXERCISING THE PLAN 79. An annual exercise shall be held, at the direction of Council, to test the Emergency Response Plan. 80. Each new Municipal Councillor will be briefed on the Municipal Emergency Response Plan by the CAO. REVIEW / AMENDMENT OF THE PLAN 81. The requirement to keep this Emergency Response Plan current dictates that the following duties be assigned with respect to an annual review of the plan: a. Duties of the CAO i. Request that each member of the Community Control Group review the plan annually; ii. Review the CCG alerting plan; iii. Review the list of useful telephone numbers; iv. Ensure that the operations centre equipment and data are current; 36 v. Publish routine amendments as they occur; and vi. Process major changes to the Emergency Response Plan for Council approval. b. Duties of the Public Works Manager i. Maintain the currency of the data on the Map; ii. Maintain the currency of the Resource Directory; and iii. Maintain the Flood Contingency Plan. c. Duties of the Fire Chiefs i. Maintain the accuracy of the list of Special Hazards; and ii. Assist the Public Works Manger in the maintenance of the Resource Directory. d. Duties of the Emergency Information Officer (EIO) i. Maintain the currency of the Communications/Media Plan. e. Duties of the Facilities Manager, or alternate i. Maintain the currency of the Evacuation Plan; ii. Maintain the accuracy of the Information Sheets; and iii. Maintain the plan for reception centers.