Emergency Management Program & Response Plan By-law (2021-050)
Owen Sound, Ontario
· adopted 2021-05-03
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By-law No. 2021-050
The Emergency Management Program &
Response Plan By-law
Table of Contents
Emergency Management Program ........................................................ 2
Emergency Response Plan .................................................................. 2
Community Emergency Management Coordinator .................................. 2
Emergency Management Program Committee ....................................... 3
Municipal Emergency Control Group ..................................................... 3
Emergency Operations Centre ............................................................. 4
Emergency Information Officer ............................................................ 4
Administration ................................................................................... 4
Consolidated Version
Last revised on July 11, 2023
Revision History:
Passed On:
Description of
amendment
2021-050 (original)
May 3, 2021
-
2021-133
November 29, 2021
change EIO
2023-085
July 10, 2023
update names, roles
and responsibilities
Consolidated for Convenience Only
This is a consolidation copy of a City of Owen Sound By-law for convenience
and information. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this
by-law, it is not an official version or a legal document. The original by-law
should be consulted for all interpretations and applications on this subject.
For more information or to view by-laws please contact the Clerks
Department.
The Corporation of the City of Owen Sound
By-law No. 2021-050
A By-law to adopt an Emergency Management Program and
Emergency Response Plan and to meet other Requirements under
the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act
WHEREAS under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O.
1990, c. E.9 (the "Act") and Ontario Regulation 380/04 (the "Reg") every
municipality in the Province of Ontario is required to:
- Develop and implement an emergency management program, which
shall consist of:
o an emergency plan;
o training programs and exercises for employees of the municipality
and other persons with respect to the provision of necessary
services and the procedures to be followed in emergency response
and recovery activities;
o public education on risks to public safety and on public
preparedness for emergencies; and
o any other elements required by the standards for emergency
management set under the Act or by Emergency Management
Ontario;
- Designate an employee of the municipality or a member of the council
as its emergency management program coordinator;
- Establish an emergency management program committee;
- Establish an emergency control group;
- Establish an emergency operations centre to be used by the municipal
emergency control group in an emergency; and
- Designate an employee of the municipality as its emergency information
officer; and
WHEREAS it is prudent that the emergency management program developed
under the Act be in accordance with international best practices, including the
five core components of emergency management; prevention, mitigation,
preparedness, response and recovery; and
WHEREAS the purpose of such a program is to help protect public safety,
public health, the environment, critical infrastructure and property during an
emergency and to promote economic stability and a disaster resilient
community;
NOW THEREFORE THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF OWEN
SOUND HEREBY ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
Pg. 2
By-law No. 2021-050
Emergency Management Program
1.
An Emergency Management Program for the municipality will be
developed and reviewed annually by the Emergency Management
Program Committee consistent with and in accordance with the Act
and Reg and international best practices, including the five
components of emergency management, namely: prevention,
mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery, and such program
shall include:
a.
training programs and exercises for employees of the
municipality and other persons with respect to the provision of
necessary services and the procedures to be followed in
emergency response and recovery activities;
b.
public education on risks to public safety and on public
preparedness for emergencies; and
c.
any other elements required by the standards for emergency
management set under the Act or by Emergency Management
Ontario.
2.
The Emergency Management Program shall be consistent with the
objectives of protecting public safety, public health, the environment,
critical infrastructure and property, and to promote economic stability
and a disaster-resilient community.
Emergency Response Plan
3.
The Emergency Response Plan, which has been developed in
accordance with the requirements of the Act and Reg and international
best practices, and which is attached hereto as Schedule A is hereby
adopted (the "Plan").
4.
The Plan shall be reviewed annually by the CEMC and the City's
Emergency Management Program Committee. The CEMC is authorized
to make such administrative changes to the Plan as appropriate to
keep the Plan current, such as personnel, organizational and contact
information updates. Any significant revision to the body of the Plan
shall be presented to Council for approval.
5.
When an emergency exists but has not yet been declared to exist, City
employees and the Emergency Control Group may take such action
under the Plan as may be required to protect property and the health,
safety and welfare of the inhabitants of the City.
Community Emergency Management Coordinator
6.
Heidi Jennen is hereby appointed as the primary community
emergency management coordinator (the "CEMC") responsible for the
emergency management program for the City including maintenance
of the Plan, training, exercises, public education and such other duties
and responsibilities as outlined in the Act and Reg.
7.
Greg Nicol is hereby appointed as alternate CEMC to act in place of the
primary CEMC in his/her absence.
Pg. 3
By-law No. 2021-050
Emergency Management Program Committee
8.
The persons from time to time holding the following positions in the
municipality, or their designates, shall be members of the Emergency
Management Program Committee:
a.
City Manager
b.
CEMC and Alternates CEMC(s)
c.
Senior Manager, Strategic Initiatives and Operational Effective
d.
Director of Public Works and Engineering
e.
Director of Community Services
f.
Director of Corporate Services
g.
Senior Manager, Corporate and Facility Services
h.
Human Resources Manager
i.
Police Chief
j.
Fire Chief
k.
City Clerk
9.
The CEMC is hereby appointed as chair of the Emergency Management
Program Committee.
10.
The Emergency Management Program Committee shall meet a
minimum of twice annually and shall advise Council on the
development and implementation of the municipality's Emergency
Management Program and shall review the program annually.
Municipal Emergency Control Group
11.
The persons from time to time holding the following positions in the
municipality, or their designates, shall be members of the Municipal
Emergency Control Group (MECG):
a.
Head of Council - Mayor
b.
Command Chief - City Manager
c.
Emergency Information Officer - Carly McArthur
d.
Liaison Officer (CEMC) - Heidi Jennen
e.
Alternate Liaison Officer (CEMC) - Greg Nicol
f.
Recording Clerk - City Clerk
g.
Operations Section Chief -a revolving position between the
Police Chief, Fire Chief, and Director Public Works & Engineering
h.
Planning Section Chief - Director of Community Services
i.
Logistics Section Chief - Manager of Corporate Services
j.
Finance and Administration Section Chief - Director of Corporate
Services
k.
Director of Public Works and Engineering
l.
Police Chief
m.
Fire Chief
Pg. 4
By-law No. 2021-050
Emergency Operations Centre
12.
A primary and an alternate Emergency Operations Centre have been
established for use by the MECG in an emergency and with the
appropriate technological and telecommunications systems to ensure
effective communication in an emergency. The locations of the
Emergency Operations Centres are identified in an annex to the Plan.
Emergency Information Officer
13.
The City's Senior Manager, Strategic Initiatives and Operational
Effective is hereby appointed as the Emergency Information Officer for
the Municipality to act as the primary media and public contact for the
municipality in an emergency.
Administration
14.
The Plan shall be made available to the public for inspection and
copying at City Hall, 808 2nd Avenue East during regular business
hours.
15.
The Plan, or any amendments to the Plan, shall be submitted to the
Chief, Emergency Management Ontario identified in the Act.
16.
By-law 2020-006 is hereby repealed.
17.
This by-law shall come into full force and effect upon the final passing
thereof.
FINALLY PASSED AND ENACTED this 3rd day of May, 2021.
Signature on file
Mayor Ian C. Boddy
Signature on file
Briana M. Bloomfield, City Clerk
Emergency
Response Plan
City of Owen Sound
Emergency Response Plan
Revised: June 1, 2023
By-law No. 2021-050
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 2
Revised June 13, 2023
Table of Contents
1. ACRONYMS
5
2. INTRODUCTION
6
Aim
7
Purpose
7
Authority
7
Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act
7
City of Owen Sound By-laws
8
City of Owen Sound Emergency Management Program Committee
8
3. EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES
9
Introduction
9
Requests for Assistance
10
Request - Provincial/Federal Assistance
10
Definition of an Emergency
10
Action Prior to Declaration
11
Declared Municipal Emergency
11
Declaration of a County Emergency
12
Protection from Liability and Compensation
12
Note Taking
12
4. EMERGENCY RESPONSE LEVELS AND ACTIONS
14
5. MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE
15
Locations
15
Incident Management System
15
Incident Management System (IMS) Function Descriptions
16
6.EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE - COMMAND UNIT
17
Operations
17
Planning
17
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
Logistics
17
Finance/Administration
18
7.EOC STAFFING POSITIONS
19
8.OTHER AGENCIES
20
Bluewater District School Board & Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board
20
Grey Bruce Health Services
20
9.OPERATING CYCLE
20
10.EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE - ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
22
10.1 COMMAND SECTION
22
Mayor
22
EOC Director (City Manager)
22
Liaison Officer - (CEMC)
23
Safety Officer (Manager of Human Resources)
24
Emergency Information Officer
24
10.2 OPERATIONS SECTION
26
The EOC Director will assign the Operation Chief, according to the requirements of
the emergency. The Operations Section Chief can be filled by:
26
Fire Chief, or alternate
26
Director, Public Works and Engineering
26
Police Chief, or alternate
26
Police Chief, Owen Sound Police Services
27
Fire Chief, Owen Sound Fire & Emergency Services
27
Director of Public Works and Engineering
28
Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Director, Grey County
29
Grey Bruce Medical Officer of Health
29
Emergency Site Manager (ESM)
30
Hydro One
30
Union Gas
30
10.3 PLANNING SECTION
31
Director of Community Services
31
City Clerk
31
Chief Building Official
32
Manager of Parks and Open Spaces
32
10.4 LOGISTICS SECTION
34
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
Human Resources Manager
34
Manager of Information Technology
34
Purchasing and Claims Coordinator
35
Manager of Arena Operations
35
Director of Social Services - Grey County
36
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
36
Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES)
36
Red Cross
36
Salvation Army
37
St. John Ambulance
37
Grey Bruce Health Services Administrator
37
Victim Services
37
Critical Incident Stress Team
37
10.5 FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION SECTION
38
Citizen Inquiry Supervisor (Deputy Treasurer)
38
11.RELATIONSHIPS
40
Municipal Emergency Control Group & Emergency Site Manager
40
ESM and Command & Control Structure of Emergency Responders
40
City of Owen Sound, adjacent municipalities and Grey County
40
Testing of the Plan
40
Internal Procedures & Processes
40
12.TERMINATION OF A DECLARED EMERGENCY
48
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 5
Revised June 13, 2023
1. ACRONYMS
ARES
Amateur Radio Emergency Service
CAO
Chief Administrative Officer, Grey County
CBRN(E)Team:
Chemical Biological-Radioactive-Nuclear-(Explosive) Team
CEMC
Community Emergency Management Coordinator
COOP
Continuity of Operations Planning
DND
Department of National Defense (Canadian Forces)
DO, Assistant DO
Duty Officer and Assistant Duty Officer
EIO
Emergency Information Officer
EMO
Emergency Management Ontario
EMS
Emergency Medical Service
EOC
Emergency Operations Centre
ESM
Emergency Site Manager
IAP
Incident Action Plan
IC/ICP
Incident Commander/Incident Command Post
ICS
Incident Command System
IMS
Incident Management System
MECG
Municipal Emergency Control Group
MCSCS
Ministry of Correctional Safety and Community Services
OFMEM
Office of The Fire Marshall and Emergency Management
OSPS
Owen Sound Police Services
PEOC
Provincial Emergency Operations Centre
PERT
Provincial Emergency Response Team
PLAN
Post Disaster Long Term Assistance Network
PNERP
Provincial Nuclear Emergency Response Team
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 6
Revised June 13, 2023
CITY OF OWEN SOUND
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
2. INTRODUCTION
Emergencies are defined as situations or impending situations caused by forces of
nature, a disease or other health risk, an accident or an intentional act that constitutes a
danger of major proportions to life and property. Emergencies affect public safety
including the health, welfare and property of residents, businesses and visitors, as well
as the environment and economic health of the City of Owen Sound.
In order to protect residents, businesses and visitors, the City of Owen Sound requires a
coordinated emergency response by a number of agencies under the direction of the
EOC members. These are arrangements and procedures that are distinct from normal
day-to-day operations carried out by emergency services.
The Incident Management System (IMS) has been adopted in this Emergency Response
Plan (Plan) to define the basic command structure and to identify roles and
responsibilities to ensure effective management of an emergency. There has been a
conscious change to IMS and encompassing the positions within the Municipal
Emergency Control Group (MECG) within the key areas of IMS.
Every official, municipal department and agency must be prepared to carry out assigned
responsibilities in an emergency. The Plan has been prepared to provide key officials,
agencies and departments of the City of Owen Sound with important emergency
response information related to:
- Arrangements, services and equipment; and
- Roles and responsibilities during an emergency.
In addition, it is important that the residents, businesses and interested visitors be aware
of its provisions. Copies of the City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan may be
viewed at City Hall and on-line at:
Owen Sound Emergency Planning Website
For more information, please contact:
Community Emergency Management Coordinator
519-376-4440 ext. 3223
[email protected]
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 7
Revised June 13, 2023
Aim
The aim of this Plan is to make provision for the extraordinary arrangements and
measures that may have to be taken to protect the health, safety, welfare, environment
and economic health of the residents, businesses and visitors of the City of Owen Sound
when faced with an emergency.
It enables a centralized, controlled and coordinated response to emergencies in the City
of Owen Sound and meets the legislated requirements of the Emergency Management
and Civil Protection Act.
For further details, please contact the Community Emergency Management Coordinator
(CEMC).
Purpose
The purpose of the City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan during an
emergency is to facilitate the effective coordination of human and physical resources,
services and activities necessary to:
a)
Protect and preserve life and property
b)
Minimize and/or mitigate the effects of the emergency on the residents and
physical infrastructure of the City of Owen Sound; and
c)
Quickly and efficiently enable the recovery and restoration of normal services
Authority
The legislation under which the City of Owen Sound and its employees are authorized to
respond to an emergency is found in:
-
The Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9 as
amended, and
-
City of Owen Sound By-law #2021-050
Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act
Subsection 4 (1) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990,
C. E. 9, as amended states that:
"The head of council of a municipality may declare that an emergency exists in the
municipality 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 plan
of the municipality and to protect property and the health, safety and welfare of the
inhabitants of the emergency area."
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 8
Revised June 13, 2023
City of Owen Sound By-laws
Council approved the Emergency Management Program and the Emergency
Response Plan (By-law 2021-050) with the enactment of this By-law on May 3, 2021.
City of Owen Sound Emergency Management Program Committee
The Emergency Management Program Committee is comprised of the primary
Municipal Emergency Control Group members. The CEMC is appointed as the Chair of
the Committee with enactment of By-law 2021-050, dated May 3, 2021.
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 9
Revised June 13, 2023
3. EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES
Introduction
Only members of the Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG) with the authority to
activate the procedure as defined in the MECG Staffing Positions descriptions may
initiate the notification procedure.
The contact phone numbers of the MECG Members and their alternates, along with
MECG Support Staff Members and their alternates are contained in Appendix A.
When an MECG member, with the authority to activate the plan, receives a warning of a
real or potential emergency, that member will immediately contact the Duty Sergeant of
the Owen Sound Police Services. The MECG member will request that the Duty
Sergeant initiate the notification of the City of Owen Sound Primary MECG response fan-
out list.
At minimum the Mayor, City Manager, CEMC, Fire Chief, Police Chief, Operation Section
Chief, Planning Section Chief and Emergency Information Officer (EIO) or their
alternates will be notified. The member initiating the call must provide pertinent details
(i.e. a time and place for the EOC members to meet) as part of the notification
procedure.
The following MECG members are responsible for ensuring that the following
departments, organizations and services are notified:
Mayor contacts:
- Council members (for information only)
- Adjacent Municipalities - as required
City Manager contacts:
- Safety Officer
CEMC contacts:
- Emergency Management Ontario
- Other External Organizations - as required
EIO contacts:
- Ontario 211
- Media List
Planning Section Chief:
- City Clerk
- Chief Building Official
- Manager of Parks and Open Space
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 10
Revised June 13, 2023
Operations Section Chief:
- Grey Bruce Medical Officer of Health
- Hydro One and Union Gas - as required
Logistics Section Chief:
- Human Resources Manager
- Purchasing Agent
- Manager of Arena Operations
Police Services contacts:
- Victim Assistance program
Fire Chief contacts:
- Fire staff
- Mutual Aid
If deemed appropriate, the individual MECG member may also initiate his/her own
internal notification procedures of their staff and volunteer organizations.
Requests for Assistance
Once an emergency has been declared, the City may request assistance from Grey
County or any of its member municipalities who are parties to the Grey County
Mutual Assistance Agreement (Schedule Q). This is done by the City Manager
contacting the CAO of the municipality from which the City wishes to request assistance.
The request shall not be deemed to be a request that Grey County assumes authority
and control of the emergency.
Assistance may also be requested from the Province of Ontario at any time without any
loss of control or authority. A request for assistance is made by contacting Emergency
Management Ontario.
Request - Provincial/Federal Assistance
If locally available resources, including those which might be available from bordering
municipalities and/or County sources, are insufficient to meet emergency requirements,
then assistance may be requested from the province. Such requests should normally be
directed through Emergency Management Ontario in Toronto by the CEMC.
Definition of an Emergency
Under Section 1 of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, an
"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
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 11
Revised June 13, 2023
caused by the force of nature, a disease or other health risk, an accident or an act
whether intentional or otherwise."
- While a wide variety or types of emergencies may occur within the geographical area of
the City of Owen Sound, our Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) shows
the most likely of these to occur are: weather related; transportation accidents; power
blackouts; large scale uncontrollable fires; a breakdown in the flow of essential
services/supplies, or any combination thereof.
Action Prior to Declaration
When an emergency exists, but has yet to be declared to exist, municipal employees
may take such action(s) under this Plan as may be required to protect property and the
health, safety and welfare of the residents, businesses and visitors to the City of Owen
Sound.
Declared Municipal Emergency
The Mayor or Designate (as appointed according to By-law No. 2022-177) is responsible
for declaring an emergency within the City of Owen Sound. This decision shall be made
in consultation with other members of the MECG.
Upon declaring an emergency, the Mayor or Designate will notify:
-
Provincial Emergency Operations Centre Duty Officer
-
City of Owen Sound Council Members
-
CAO and Warden of Grey County
-
Staff
-
Public
-
Neighbouring Municipal Officials
-
Local Member of Parliament (MP)
-
Local Member of the Provincial Parliament (MPP)
A municipal emergency may be terminated at any time by:
-
Mayor or Designate
-
City of Owen Sound Council Members
-
Premier of Ontario
When terminating an emergency, the Mayor or Designate will notify:
-
Provincial Emergency Operations Centre Duty Officer
-
City of Owen Sound Council Members
-
CAO and Warden of Grey County
-
Staff
-
Public
-
Neighbouring municipal officials (as required)
-
Local Member of the Provincial Parliament (MPP)
-
Local Member of Parliament (MP)
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 12
Revised June 13, 2023
Declaration of a County Emergency
The County of Grey Warden or designated alternate, as Head of Council, in
consultation with the County of Grey Control Group is responsible for declaring an
emergency to exist within the County of Grey when deemed appropriate.
Protection from Liability and Compensation
The Emergency Plans Act identifies that:
"No action or other proceedings for damages lies or shall be instituted against a member
of Council, an employee, a minister of the Crown or a Crown employee for doing or
neglecting to do any act in good faith or in the implementation or intended
implementation of an emergency plan or in connection with an emergency".
"Where money has been expended or cost is incurred by the municipality or the Crown in
the implementation of an emergency plan or in connection with an emergency, the
municipality or Crown, as the case may be, has the right of action against any person
who caused the emergency for the recovery of such money or cost, and for the purpose
of this section, "municipality" includes a local board of a municipality, a county and local
services board."
Note Taking
During an emergency it is critical that each member of the Municipal Emergency Control
Group, departmental staff and scribes take notes and track activities. Effective note
taking supports the achievement of incident objectives and credibility when completing
reports and forms during and after an emergency. Notes may also be referenced for any
legal proceedings resulting from the emergency. Below are note taking recommended
practices: Refer to the back of Emergency Management Log Book for further
Guidelines
- Add the date and time to the top of each page for every input;
- Start a new page for each operational cycle;
- The information should be as legible as possible;
- Individual paper logs should also be bound with numbered pages to ensure that
pages are always secure;
- If there are no pre-printed numbered pages, you should always manually write
them at the bottom of the page;
- Notes must be in ink, not pencil, using a single colour, in chronological order;
- Draw a line to indicate the end of each entry;
- Strike through and initial incorrect information; ensure the incorrect entry is still
legible
- If a scribe is completing the Personal Log for the MECG member, both the scribe
and the MECG member must initial the error
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
- Do not keep rough notes with the intention of updating the "official" notes later. If
rough notes must be taken do so in your official personal log and write them out in
better format when time permits;
- Avoid any unprofessional language, or unfounded assumption of responsibility or
guilt;
- State the details of your action and/or tasks to be completed during an operational
period;
- Blank spaces should be avoided or closed with an initialed line;
- Notes written after the incident should include;
o The date and times that the notes were written
o An explanation for why the note was added after the incident
- Avoid conferring with others to ensure that notes are "correct";
- Write objectively. Be factual and be specific;
- Use approved or recognized abbreviations or short forms;
- Always retain the original copies of note if photocopies are made;
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
4. EMERGENCY RESPONSE LEVELS AND ACTIONS
RESPONSE LEVEL
INITIAL ACTIONS BY MUNICIPALITY
1-Routine
A routine incident, which the municipality has the capability to
handle within its own Standard Operating Guidelines. Generally, this
is an emergency of a short duration and low impact.
2-Monitoring
The Mayor, City Manager, Director of Public Works and
Engineering, Police Chief, Fire Chief, Director of Community
Services, CEMC and Emergency Information Officer monitor the
situation from their normal workplace or home.
3-Enhanced Monitoring Members of the MECG (Mayor, City Manager, CEMC, Director of
Public Works and Engineering, Police Chief, Fire Chief, Planning
Section Chief, Director EMS and Emergency Information Officer)
meet to discuss the events, current actions and potential for the
incident to require activation of the EOC and MECG. This would be
activated by one with authority to activate.
4- Full Activation
The EOC and full MECG are activated through the Owen Sound
Police Services Duty Sergeant.
Enhanced Monitoring - implemented when a situation requires continual monitoring by
the municipality. A community emergency is not imminent, but unforeseen
circumstances could result in the situation becoming a threat to the community. An
example would be indications for extreme weather or an emergency occurring in an
adjacent community.
Full Activation - the entire Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG) assembles at
the designated EOC. Organizations contacted ensure that they undertake their own
internal and external notifications and contacts. The EOC EOC Director in conjunction
with the four IMS sections coordinates the emergency response.
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
5. MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE
Locations
The locations of the City of Owen Emergency Operations Centers are:
Primary
Secondary
City Hall
Owen Sound Police Services
808 2nd Avenue East
922 2nd Avenue West
Owen Sound, ON N4K 2H4
Owen Sound, ON N4K 4M8
519-376-1440
519-376-1234
The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) can be activated for any incident for the
purposes of managing an emergency by maintaining services to the community and
supporting the emergency site.
Incident Management System
The direction and control structure for the City of Owen Sound's emergency operations is
based upon the Incident Management System (IMS). IMS is an internationally
recognized, standardized emergency response system, which defines the basic
command structure and the roles and responsibilities required for the effective
management of the emergency.
IMS is endorsed by Emergency Management Ontario. The benefits of using IMS include:
enhanced technical and functional interoperability, integrated communications; and
standard terminology.
IMS consists of five key functions:
1.
Command (Emergency Operation Centre) Management
2.
Operations
3.
Planning
4.
Logistics
5.
Finance/Administration
Figure 1: The 5 Key Functions of the Incident Management System
OPERATIONS
PLANNING
LOGISTICS
FINANCE/
ADMINISTRATION
COMMAND
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
Incident Management System (IMS) Function Descriptions
The Incident Management System (IMS) is a model for command, control and coordination
of an emergency. It provides a way of coordinating the efforts of agencies and resources
as they work together toward safely responding to an emergency incident. IMS consists of
five key functions: EOC Management (Command), Operations, Planning, Logistics and
Finance/Administration.
Figure 2: The 5 Key Function Descriptions of the Incident Management System
MAYOR
COMMAND CHIEF
(CITY MANAGER)
OPERATIONS
Police
Fire
Public Health
Utilities
Engineering
Public Works
Water & Wastewater
Airport
Transit
PLANNING
Situation
Resources
Advanced Planning
Documentation
LOGISTICS
Telecommunications
IT
Supplies
Personnel
Facilities
FINANCE/
ADMINISTRATION
Recovery
Donations
LIASION
OFFICER
(CEMC)
SAFETY
OFFICER
EMERGENCY
INFORMATION
OFFICER
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
Page 17
Revised June 13, 2023
6. EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE - COMMAND UNIT
The EOC management section has overall authority for the control and direction of the
emergency response. EOC management has three (3) supporting functions:
1.
Risk Management/Safety Officer (ensures good risk management practices are
applied throughout the emergency)
2.
Liaison (coordination of agencies involved in the response)
3.
Emergency Information (dissemination of information to the media and public)
The Command Staff are specifically designated, report directly to the Incident
Commander, and are assigned responsibility for key activities that are not a part of the
General Staff functional elements. EOC Director directly manages all incident tactical
activities and implements the Incident Action Plan (IAP).
The Emergency Information Officer (EIO) is responsible for interfacing with the public
and media and with other agencies with incident related information requirements. The
Emergency Information Officer (EIO) assembles accurate, accessible, and complete
information on the incident's cause, size, and current situation; the resources committed;
and other matters of general interest for both internal and external audiences.
The Safety Officer monitors incident operations and advises Incident Command on all
matters relating to operational safety, including the health and safety of emergency
responder personnel.
The Liaison Officer (CEMC) is Incident Command's point of contact for representatives
of other governmental departments and agencies and/or the private sector.
Operations
Operations coordinates the operational requirements and the response, directs
resources and equipment as required to fulfill emergency management requirements.
The Emergency Site Manager (ESM) / Incident Commander (IC) at the scene of the
emergency are part of Operations away from the EOC.
Planning
Planning gathers information critical to the incident in order to develop, disseminate and
evaluate Incident Action Plans (IAP's).
Logistics
Logistics arranges for and coordinates all material, services, equipment and resources
required to manage and resolve the emergency. Logistics tracks usage and current
locations of these same items. Logistics is responsible for all service support
requirements needed to facilitate effective and efficient incident management, including
ordering resources from off-incident locations.
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Logistics also provides facilities, security, transportation of personnel, supplies, food
services, communications and information technology support, and emergency
responder medical services.
Finance/Administration
Finance/Administration perform duties related to administrative, financial, compensation,
and claims specific to the emergency. This includes keeping track of incident related
costs, staff compensation and claims.
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7. EOC STAFFING POSITIONS
POSITION
SECTION
Mayor
Command
City Manager
Command - EOC Director
Heidi Jennen
Command - Liaison Officer/CEMC
Greg Nicol
Command - Liaison Officer/Alt CEMC
Carly McArthur
Command - Emergency Information Officer
(EIO)
Manager of Human Resources
Command - Safety Officer
Director of Public Works and Engineering
Operations
Police Chief
Operations
Fire Chief
Operations
Grey County EMS Director
Operations
Grey Bruce Medical Officer of Health
Operations
Emergency Site Manager - to be appointed
Operations
Hydro One and Union Gas - as required
Operations
Director of Community Services
Planning Section Chief
City Clerk
Planning
Chief Building Official
Planning
Manager of Parks and Open Space
Planning
Manager of Corporate Services
Logistics Section Chief
Director of Grey County Social Services
Logistics
Manager of Human Resources
Logistics
Purchasing Agent
Logistics
Manager of Arena Operations
Logistics
Manager of Information Technology
Logistics
Victim Services
Logistics
Director of Corporate Services
Finance/Administration Section Chief
Deputy Treasurer
Finance/Administration
The EOC Director will assign the Operation Chief, according to the requirements
of the emergency. The Operations Section Chief can be filled by:
- Fire Chief, or alternate
- Director, Public Works and Engineering, or alternate
- Police Chief, or alternate
Note: The Emergency Operations Centre may function with only a limited number
of persons depending upon the emergency.
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8. OTHER AGENCIES
In an emergency, many agencies may be required to work with the MECG. Two (2)
such agencies are detailed below. Others might include Office of the Fire Marshall and
Emergency Management (OFMEM), industry, volunteer groups, conservation
authorities and provincial ministries.
Bluewater District School Board & Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board
The school boards are responsible for:
-
Providing any school (as appropriate and available) for use as an evacuation or
reception center and a representative(s) to coordinate the maintenance, use and
operation of the facilities being utilized as evacuation and reception centres
-
Ensuring liaison with the municipality as to protective actions to the schools (i.e.
implementing school stay in place procedure and implementing the school
evacuation procedure).
Grey Bruce Health Services
The Grey Bruce Health Services is responsible for:
-
Implementing the hospital emergency plan, as required
-
Ensuring liaison with the Medical Officer of Health and local ambulance
representatives with respect to hospital and medical matters, as required
-
Evaluating requests for the provision of medical site teams/ medical triage teams
-
Ensuring liaison with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, as appropriate.
PLAN Network
The PLAN Network is responsible for:
1. PLAN stands for Post Disaster Long Term Assistance Network
2. PLAN is the group of social service providers in the Counties of Grey and Bruce
3. Victim Assistance is the lead contact for PLAN, which includes: Red Cross, 211,
Salvation Army, Bruce and Grey Social Services, Family Y Housing, Ontario
Works Emergency Assistance, Ontario Disability Support Program, Habitat for
Humanity, United Way Bruce-Grey, Safe N' Sound
4. PLAN will work with those affected to guide them to the proper service providers
5. PLAN will set up and staff a registration center as required
9. OPERATING CYCLE
Members of the MECG will gather at regular intervals to inform each other of actions
taken and problems encountered. The EOC Director or their designate will establish
frequency of meetings and agenda items. Meetings will be kept as brief as possible
thereby allowing members to carry out their individual responsibilities.
The Clerk will maintain a status board and maps, which will be prominently displayed
and kept up-to-date.
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EOC ACTIVATION FLOWCHART
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
10.
EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE - ROLES &
RESPONSIBILITIES
10.1 COMMAND SECTION
Mayor
The Mayor or Designate (identified in Appendix A) provides emergency policy and
direction to the City's Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). As Chair of the Command
Group, the Mayor or designate has the following responsibilities:
-
Activate the emergency notification system through the Owen Sound Police
Dispatch Duty Sergeant
-
Provide overall emergency policy and direction to the EOC Director (City
Manager)
-
Act as the primary spokesperson for the Municipality.
-
Authorize the release of information on behalf of the City, or delegate that
authority to the EOC Director
-
and/or Emergency Information Officer
-
Issue authoritative instructions, information and warnings to the general public by
way of the media as authorized and requested by various agencies.
-
Declare an emergency within the designated area
-
Ensure the Members of Council are advised of the declaration and termination of
an emergency, and are kept informed of the emergency situation.
-
Declare that the emergency has terminated (Note: Members of Council may also
terminate the Emergency)
-
Notify Provincial Emergency Operations Centre Duty Officer of the declaration of
the emergency and termination of the emergency.
-
Notify the Grey County Warden of the declaration of the emergency and
termination of the emergency, or of the activation or partial activation of the EOC.
-
Notify the public of the declaration and termination of an emergency.
-
Request County government assistance, as required.
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
EOC Director (City Manager)
The City Manager is the EOC Director for the City of Owen Sound. The EOC
Director or designate (identified in Appendix A) has the following responsibilities:
-
Activate the emergency notification system through the Owen Sound Police
Dispatch Duty Sergeant
-
Determine which management staff positions are required, assign section chiefs
as appropriate and ensure they are filled as soon as possible:
Emergency Information Officer
Liaison Officer
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Safety Officer
Scribes
-
Determine what sections are needed, assign personnel as appropriate and
ensure they are staffing their areas as required
-
The Command Section Chief or their designate will chair the EOC Section
meetings
-
Exercise overall management responsibility for the coordination between
response and supporting agencies in the Emergency Operations Centre, and set
priorities for response efforts in the affected areas
-
Establish the appropriate staffing level for the EOC and continuously monitor
organizational effectiveness to ensure that appropriate modifications occur as
required
-
Liaise with the Mayor on policies and procedures, as appropriate
-
Approve, in conjunction with the Mayor, major announcements and media
releases prepared by the Emergency Information Officer, in consultation with the
EOC members
-
Appoint the Emergency Site Manager in consultation with EOC members from
the lead agency
-
Ensure that a communication link is established between the EOC members and
the Emergency Site Manager (ESM)
-
Ensure risk management principles and procedures are applied to all EOC
activities
-
Call upon additional municipal staff to provide assistance, as required
-
Ensure that operational periods are established and that initial EOC response
priorities and objectives are decided and communicated to all involved parties
-
Appoint alternate EOC members when an identified position is vacant at the time
of an emergency
-
Document all decisions/approvals
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Liaison Officer - (CEMC)
The Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC) acts as the Liaison
Officer. As a support function of the Command (EOC Management), the Liaison Officer
serves as the primary contact for assisting or supporting organizations and has the
following responsibilities:
-
Advises Command (EOC Management) of issues related to outside
assistance and support, including current or potential inter-organization
needs
-
Gathers information from and about organizations that are involved with the
incident. This includes obtaining, from their representatives, information about
standard and specialized resources they might have, or special support that they
might need, and whether there are considerations or restrictions that may impact
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how such resources may be used
-
Serves as a coordinator for organizations not represented in EOC
-
Provides briefings to organization representatives about the operation
-
Activate the emergency notification system of the local amateur radio operators
group, (if required)
-
Maintains a list of supporting and assisting organizations, and keeping it
updated as the incident evolves
-
Ensure that the operating cycle is met by the Municipal Emergency Control
Group (MECG) and related documentation is maintained and kept for future
reference.
-
Maintain the records and logs for the purpose of the debriefs and post-
emergency reporting.
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken.
Safety Officer (Manager of Human Resources)
Consideration should be given to appoint a qualified individual to be become the Safety
Officer for the duration of the emergency to primarily oversee safety and ensure:
-
That good risk management practices are applied throughout the response
organization at the EOC
-
Monitors safety conditions and develops safety measures
-
Provides advice on safety issues
-
In consultation with the Operations Chief and Planning Section Chief, create
systems and procedures related to the overall health and safety of all incident
responders
-
Safety Officer has the authority to halt or modify any and all unsafe operations
within or outside the scope of the EOC
-
Monitors situations for risk exposures and ascertains probabilities and potential
consequences of future events
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Emergency Information Officer
The Emergency Information Officer acts as a support function to the Command (EOC
Management). The Information Officer or designate (identified in Appendix A) has the
following responsibilities:
-
Serve as the coordination point for all public information, media relations and
internal information sources for the EOC
-
Establish a communication link with the Information Officer for Grey County, the
Citizen Inquiry supervisor and any other Media coordinators (i.e. agency,
Regional, Provincial, Federal, private industry etc.) involved in the incident
ensuring that all information released to the media and public is timely, full & and
accurate
-
Liaison with the EOC to obtain up-to-date information for media releases, co-
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
ordinate individual interviews and organize press conferences
-
Ensure that the following are advised of the telephone number of the Media
Centre.
Media
EOC members
Switchboard (City of Owen Sound)
Community Spokesperson
Police Public Relation Officer
Neighbouring communities, and Grey County
Citizen Inquiry Supervisor
Any other appropriate persons, agencies or business, including 211
-
Provide direction and regular updates to the Citizen Inquiry Supervisor to ensure
that the most accurate and up-to-date information is disseminated to the public
-
Provide Social Media coverage
-
Monitor news and Social Media coverage and correct any erroneous information
and provide bona fide issues and concerns to the EOC Director
-
Maintain copies of media releases and newspaper articles pertaining to the
emergency
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
-
Ensure that the media releases are approved by the EOC Director (in
consultation with the Mayor) prior to dissemination, and distribute hard copies of
the media release to Council, EOC members, Citizen Inquiry Supervisor and
other key persons handling inquiries from the media
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10.2 OPERATIONS SECTION
The EOC Director will assign the Operation Chief, according to the requirements
of the emergency. The Operations Section Chief can be filled by:
- Fire Chief, or alternate
- Director, Public Works and Engineering
- Police Chief, or alternate
As a member of Operations, the Operations Section Chief or designate will ensure the
operations function is carried out including coordination of response for all operational
functions assigned to the EOC
:
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Police Chief, Owen Sound Police Services
The Chief of the Owen Sound Police Service or designate (identified in
Appendix A), as a member of Operations, has the following responsibilities:
-
Activate the emergency notification system through the Owen Sound Police
Dispatch Duty Sergeant
-
If assigned by the EOC Director, act as the Operations Section Chief and ensure
the operations function is carried out including coordination of response for all
operational functions assigned to the EOC;
-
Maintain a communications link between Incident Commanders at the site(s) for
the purpose of coordinating the overall response, resource requests and event
status information
-
Ensure liaison with Grey County Social Services regarding the establishment,
security and operation of evacuation and reception centers
-
Ensure the protection of life and property and the provision of law and order
-
Provide police services in other facilities, as required
-
Notify the coroner of fatalities
-
Ensure liaison with other community, provincial and federal police agencies, as
required
-
Provide an Emergency Site Manager, if required
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Fire Chief, Owen Sound Fire & Emergency Services
As a member of Operations, the Fire Chief or designate (identified in Appendix A) has
the following responsibilities:
-
Activate the emergency notification system through the Owen Sound Police
Dispatch Duty Sergeant
-
If assigned by the EOC Director, act as the Operations Section Chief and
ensure the operations function is carried out including coordination of response
for all operational functions assigned to the EOC;
-
Provide the MECG with information and advice on firefighting and rescue
matters
-
Depending on the nature of the emergency, assign the Site Manager and inform
the MECG
-
Maintain a communications link between Incident Commanders at the site(s) for
the purpose of coordinating the overall response, resource requests and event
status information
-
Inform the Mutual Aid Fire Coordinator and/or initiating mutual aid arrangements
for the provision of additional firefighters and equipment, if needed
-
Determine if additional or special equipment is needed and recommend possible
sources of supply, e.g., breathing apparatus, protective clothing
-
Provide assistance to other community departments and agencies and be
prepared to take charge of or contribute to non-firefighting operations if
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
necessary e.g. rescue, first aid, casualty collection, evacuation
-
Provide advice and clarification about the implementation details of the
Emergency Response Plan
-
Provide an Emergency Site Manager, if required
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Director of Public Works and Engineering
As a member of Operations, the Director of Public Works and Engineering or designate
(identified in Appendix A) has the following responsibilities:
-
If assigned by the EOC Director, act as the Operations Section Chief and ensure
the operations function is carried out including coordination of response for all
operational functions assigned to the EOC;
-
Provide the EOC with information and advice on engineering and public works
matters
-
Depending on the nature of the emergency, assign the Site Manager and inform
the EOC
-
Maintain a communications link between Incident Commanders at the site(s) for
the purpose of coordinating the overall response, resource requests and event
status information
-
Ensure liaison with the public works representative from the neighbouring
communities and Grey County to ensure a coordinated response
-
Ensure provision of engineering assistance
-
Ensure construction, maintenance and repair of City roads
-
Ensure the maintenance of sanitary sewage and water systems,
-
Provide equipment for emergency pumping operations
-
Ensure liaison with the Fire Chief concerning emergency water supplies for
firefighting purposes
-
Provide emergency potable water, supplies and sanitation facilities to the
requirements of the Medical Officer of Health
-
Discontinue any public works service to any resident, as required, and restoring
these services when appropriate
-
Ensure liaison with public utilities to disconnect any service representing a
hazard and/or to arrange for the provision of alternate services or functions,
-
Provide public works facilities, vehicles, equipment and personnel as required by
any other emergency services
-
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
EOC and the support and advisory staff
-
Ensure liaison with the conservation authority regarding flood control,
conservation and environmental matters, and being prepared to take
preventative action
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Director, Grey County
As a member of Operations, the Director, Grey County EMS or designate, has the
following responsibilities:
-
Ensure emergency medical services at the emergency site
-
Depending on the nature of the emergency, assign the Site Manager and inform
the EOC
-
Maintain a communications link between Incident Commanders at the site(s) for
the purpose of coordinating the overall response, resource requests and event
status information
-
Obtain emergency medical services from other municipalities for support, if
required
-
Ensure triage at the site
-
Advise the EOC if other means of transportation are required for large-scale
response
-
Ensure liaison with the receiving hospitals
-
Ensure liaison with the Medical Officer of Health, as required
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Grey Bruce Medical Officer of Health
As a member of Operations, the Medical Officer of Health (MOH), or designate, has
the following responsibilities:
-
Act as a coordinating link for all emergency health services at the EOC
-
Ensure liaison with the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Public
Health Branch
-
Depending on the nature of the emergency, assign the Site Manager and inform
the MECG
-
Maintain a communications link between the senior health official at the site(s) for
the purpose of coordinating the overall response, resource requests and incident
status information
-
Ensure liaison with the ambulance service representatives
-
Provide advice on any matters that may adversely affect public health;
-
Provide authoritative instructions on health and safety matters to the public
through the Emergency Information Officer
-
Coordinate the response to disease-related emergencies or anticipated
emergencies such as epidemics, according to Ministry of Health and Long-Term
Care policies
-
Ensure coordination of all efforts to prevent and control the spread of disease
during an emergency
-
Notify EOC of the need for potable water supplies and sanitation facilities
-
Ensure liaison with Community and Health Services on areas of mutual concern
regarding health services in evacuee centers
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
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Emergency Site Manager (ESM)
The EOC Director, in consultation with the EOC members, from the lead agency
involved will appoint the Emergency Site Manger (ESM) in the specific type of
emergency.
-
Once appointed, this individual will no longer be responsible for the operations or
command of his/her agency. The ESM will report directly to the Operations
Manager
-
Request assistance from responding agencies for communications and other
emergency site tools
-
Ensures priorities, tasks and tactics have been established in an Incident Action
Plan to contain the event
-
Ensure that responding agencies are aware of human and material resources
that are available to mitigate the emergency
-
Ensure agencies address the needs of their staff with regard to stress, fatigue,
food, shelter and relief
-
Maintain a communication link with the EOC Director at the EOC for the flow of
accurate information and assistance in management of the emergency;
-
Exercise foresight as to the future events in management of the emergency such
as resource requirements, weather, lighting, etc.
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Hydro One
As a member of Operations, the Utility Representative - Hydro One has the
following responsibilities:
-
Monitor the status of power outages and customers without services
-
Provide updates on power outages, as required;
-
Provide liaison with other area Hydro Utilities, as required;
-
Ensure liaison with the Operations Section Chief;
-
May provide assistance with accessing generators for essential services, or other
temporary power measures.
Union Gas
As a member of Operations, the Utility Representative - Union Gas has the
following responsibilities:
-
Monitor the status of outages and customers without services
-
Provide updates on outages, as required
-
Ensure liaison with the Operations Section Chief
-
May provide assistance with accessing providing for essential services, or other
temporary measures
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10.3 PLANNING SECTION
Planning gathers information critical to the incident in order to develop, disseminate and
evaluate incident action plans.
The Director of Community Services is the Planning Section Chief.
Director of Community Services
The Planning Section Chief or designate has the following responsibilities:
- Collect, analyze, and display situational information
- Prepare periodic Situation Reports
- Prepare and distribute Incident Action Plan (IAP) and facilitate Action Planning
process
- Conduct Advance Planning activities and report
- Document and maintain files on all EOC activities
- Provide technical support services to the various EOC sections and branches;
- Keeps the EOC Director informed of significant issues affecting the Planning
Section
- In coordination with the EOC sections ensures that Status Reports are completed
and utilized as a basis for EOC Situation Reports and Incident Action Plan (IAP)
- Provide staff to assist the Emergency Information Officer
- Provide accurate up-to-date mapping for the Municipality and surrounding area, in
consultation with GIS staff
- Provide property data as required by the EOC sections
- Provide general planning assistance to the EOC sections
- Coordinating the use of Municipal facilities in consultation with Grey County Director
of Social Services
- Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
City Clerk
As a member of Planning, the Clerk or designate has the following responsibilities:
-
Ensure all important decisions made and actions taken by EOC members are
recorded
-
Collect, organize and file all completed event or disaster-related forms, including:
all EOC Position Logs, Situation Reports, Incident Action Plans, and any other
related information, just prior to the end of each operational period
-
Ensure that maps and status boards are kept up to date, in consultation with the
Community Services Department and GIS staff
-
Provide a process for registering EOC members, and maintaining an EOC
member list
-
Notify the required support and advisory staff about the emergency and the
location of the Emergency Operations Centre
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
-
Arrange for printing of material, as required
-
Distribute EOC Situation Reports, Incident Action Plan, and other documents, as
requested
-
Maintain a permanent archive of all Situation Reports and Incident Action Plans
associated with the emergency
-
Maintain and record decisions made and actions taken
-
Upon direction by the Mayor, ensure that all Members of Council are advised of
the declaration and termination of the emergency
-
Upon direction by the Mayor, arrange special meetings of Council, as required,
and advise Members of Council about the time, date, and location of the
meetings
-
Provides advice to the Mayor and IMS sections with respect to interpretation of
legislation governing the control of response to an emergency by the EOC
members
-
Seek legal advice to the EOC sections on matters, as they apply to the actions of
the municipality in its response to the emergency, as requested
-
Protects the interests of all EOC members, agencies and organizations by
ensuring due diligence in information collection, decision-making, and
implementation
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Chief Building Official
The Chief Building Official or designate shall:
-
Undertake field review to determine overall safety of buildings or structures
directly or indirectly affected by the incident - field review may require the
assistance of an aircraft for photographing
-
Issue any orders as required for required remedial actions to be undertaken;
-
Proceed with any actions required to "make safe" any building or structure
-
Advise the EOC Director on the overall safety of buildings or structures
directly or indirectly affected by the incident
-
Retain the services of a structural engineer(s) as required to assist in the review
of buildings
-
Provide assistance to neighbouring municipalities as required
-
Receive assistance from neighbouring municipalities as required and when
required, in the discretion of the Chief building official or alternate, engage and
obtain the services and assistance of building officials from other municipalities
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Manager of Parks and Open Spaces
The Manager of Parks and Open Spaces or designate shall:
-
Undertake a review of the damage to all trees within the City
-
Issue instructions on the removal of trees that encumber utility or other access
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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required, as well as vehicular movement within the City
-
Proceed with securing additional staff and resources as required
-
Provide assistance to neighbouring municipalities as required
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
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Revised June 13, 2023
10.4 LOGISTICS SECTION
Logistics arranges for and coordinates all material, services, equipment and resources
required to manage and resolve the emergency. Logistics tracks usage and current
locations of these items.
The Manager of Corporate Services or designate is the Logistics Section Chief.
Manager of Corporate Services
The Logistics Chief has the following responsibilities:
-
Coordinate the provision of all resources
-
Develop telecommunications plan
-
Provide incident telecommunication/IT services and resources
-
Set up food services
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Human Resources Manager
As a member of Logistics, the Human Resources Manager or designate has
the following responsibilities:
-
Coordinate and process requests for Human Resources
-
Coordinate offers of, and appeals for, volunteers with the support of the MECG
-
Select the most appropriate site(s) for the registration of human resources
-
Ensure records of Human Resources and administrative detail, that may involve
financial liability, are completed
-
Ensure that a Volunteer Registration Form is completed when volunteers are
involved, and a copy of the Form is retained for City records
-
Ensure identification cards are issued to volunteers and temporary employees,
where practical
-
Coordinate transportation of personnel to and from site(s), in consultation with
the EOC Director at the EOC
-
Obtain assistance, if necessary, from Human Resources and Skills Development
Canada, as well as other government departments, public and private agencies
and volunteer groups
-
Procure staff to assist, as required
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Manager of Information Technology
As a member of Logistics, the Manager of Information Technology or designate has the
following Responsibilities:
-
Initiate the necessary action to ensure the telephone system at the Municipal
offices and EOC function as effectively as possible, as the situation dictates
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
-
Ensure that the Emergency Communications Centre is properly equipped and
staffed with appropriate technical staff to maintain equipment and trouble shoot
problems
-
Provide GIS support
-
Maintain an inventory of community and private sector communications
equipment and facilities within the community, which could, in an emergency, be
used to augment existing communications systems
-
Make arrangements to acquire additional communications resources during an
emergency
-
Arrange for the operation and integration of all fax machines, computers and
other technological resources as required
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Purchasing and Claims Coordinator
As a member of Logistics, the Purchasing and Claims Coordinator or designate is
responsible for:
-
Providing and securing equipment and supplies not owned by the City of Owen
Sound
-
Ensuring liaison with Finance/Administration Section in order to assist with
maintaining accurate records of expenses
-
Ensuring liaison with purchasing agents of the neighbouring communities and
Grey County, if necessary
-
Ensuring liaison with Operations Section in the event any outside supplier or
contractor is required
-
Maintaining and updating a list of all vendors (including 24-hour contact
numbers), who may be required to provide supplies and equipment
-
Ensuring emergency fuel contracts for vehicles and standby generators is active
and in good standing
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Manager of Arena Operations
As a member of Logistics, the Manager of Arena Operations or designate is responsible
for:
-
Arrange to have City facilities opened in a timely manner
-
Arrange for security at these facilities as required
-
Coordinate and oversee the management of essential facilities and sites
-
Coordinate the acquisition of additional facilities
-
Coordinate the restoration of utilities and critical services at essential facilities
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Director of Social Services - Grey County
As a member of Logistics, the Director of Social Services - Grey County has the
following responsibilities:
-
Ensure the well-being of residents who have been displaced from their homes by
arranging emergency lodging, clothing, feeding, registration and inquiries and
personal services
-
Supervise the opening and operation of temporary and/or long-term evacuee
centers, and ensuring they are adequately staffed
-
Ensure liaison with the Police Chief with respect to the pre-designation of
evacuee centers that can be opened on short notice
-
Liaise with the Medical Officer of Health on areas of mutual concern regarding
operations in evacuee centers
-
Ensure that a representative of the Bluewater District School Board and/or the
Grey Bruce Catholic District School Board is/are notified when facilities are
required at evacuee reception centers, and that staff and volunteers utilizing the
school facilities take direction from the Board representative(s) with respect to
their maintenance, use and operation
-
Ensure liaison with community support agencies through Victim Services (PLAN)
-
Ensure liaison with area Homes for the Aged and Nursing Homes as required
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
On request from the City:
-
Provide for the sheltering and feeding of animals.
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES)
On request from the City:
-
Provide a representative to the City's EOC to determine the amateur radio
communication needs and capabilities
-
Activate emergency notification procedures for the Saugeen Sector of the
Amateur Radio Emergency Services operators
-
Ensure that the EOC is properly equipped and staffed
-
Establish an area wide radio network in the event of a telephone failure
-
Coordinate the deployment of amateur radio operators and resources during an
emergency according to the needs of the EOC.
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Red Cross
On request from Victim Services (PLAN):
-
Assist with registration and Inquiry functions at the reception centre(s)
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
-
Collaboratively work with the County of Grey Social Services to provide shelter
and mass care
-
Assist in donation management and service group volunteer management.
-
Maintain a log of all actions taken
Salvation Army
On request from Victim Services (PLAN):
-
Provide trained staff for personal services at reception centers
-
Provide support to site personnel
-
Assist in donation management and volunteer management
-
Maintain a log of all actions taken
St. John Ambulance
On request from the City or Victim Services (PLAN):
-
Provide first aid services at reception centers
-
Provide assistance to EMS by providing first aid at the site level
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Grey Bruce Health Services Administrator
During an emergency, the GBHS Administrator or designate is responsible for:
-
Implementing their respective Hospital Emergency Plan
-
Liaise with the Medical Officer of Health and local EMS representatives with
respect to hospital and medical matters, as required
-
Evaluate requests for the provision of medical site teams
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Victim Services
On request from the City:
-
Provide crisis counselling
-
Liaise with the members of PLAN (Red Cross, 211, Salvation Army, Grey and
Bruce County Social Services, Ontario Works, Ontario Disability Support
Program, Habitat for Humanity, United Way Bruce-Grey and Safe N' Sound)
-
Maintain a log of all actions taken
Critical Incident Stress Team
The CIS Team is available for stress debriefing during and succeeding emergencies
and major incidents. Contact 289-239-7978 Canadian Critical Incident Stress
Foundation Critical Incident Street Team Website
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
10.5 FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION SECTION
Finance/Administration performs duties related to administration, finance and staffing
specific to the emergency. This includes keeping track of incident-related costs,
purchasing and compensation and claims.
The Director of Corporate Services or designate is the Finance and Administration
Section Chief.
The Director of Corporate Services has the following responsibilities:
-
Provide information and advice on financial matters as they relate to the
emergency
-
Activate units within Finance/Administration, as required
-
In consultation with the EOC Director, confirm adequacy of expenditure limits
as identified in the Purchasing Policy
-
Ensure there is a continuum of payroll process for all employees
-
Ensure liaison, if necessary, with the Treasurers/Directors of Finance of
neighbouring communities and Grey County
-
Ensure that records of expenses are maintained for future claim purposes;
-
Ensure the prompt payment and settlement of all the legitimate invoices and
claims issued during an emergency
-
Ensure all requirements under the Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program
are met by the municipality and submitted to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and
Housing within 14 days of the emergency
-
Facilitates the Recovery Plan for the City of Owen Sound
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
Citizen Inquiry Supervisor (Deputy Treasurer)
The Deputy Treasurer or designate is the Citizen Inquiry Supervisor. The Citizen
Inquiry function is located at City Hall. This emergency position is part of the
information function supporting the Command (EOC Management).
The Citizen Inquiry Supervisor has the following responsibilities:
-
Coordinate the provision of clerical staff to assist in the Emergency Operations
Centre as required
-
Establish a Citizen Inquiry Service, including the appointment of personnel and
designation of telephone lines
-
Inform the Emergency Information Officer of the establishment of the Citizen
Inquiry Service and designated telephone number(s)
-
Inform the affected emergency services, the EOC and City switchboards of the
establishment of the Citizen Inquiry Service and designated telephone numbers
-
Ensure operators are informed of MECG members' telephone numbers in the
EOC
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
-
Ensure liaison with the Emergency Information Officer to obtain current
information on the emergency
-
Respond to and re-direct 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 evacuee centers)
-
Respond to, and redirect 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
-
Respond to, and redirect inquiries pertaining to, persons who may be located in
evacuation and reception centers to the registration and inquiry telephone
number(s)
-
Procure staff to assist, as required
-
Maintain a personal log of all actions taken
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
11.
RELATIONSHIPS
Municipal Emergency Control Group & Emergency Site Manager
Depending on the nature of the emergency, and once the Site Manager has been
assigned, the MECG relationship with the ESM is to offer support with equipment, staff
and other resources, as required.
The MECG will also ensure that the rest of the community maintains municipal services.
ESM and Command & Control Structure of Emergency Responders
The senior representative for each emergency responder (police, fire, EMS, public
works) at the site will consult with the ESM so as to offer a coordinated and
effective response. Regular briefings will be held at the site and chaired by the
ESM to establish the manner and process to the emergency.
City of Owen Sound, adjacent municipalities and Grey County
In the event of an emergency, it is important that the two levels of local government
operate in a cohesive, planned manner. This Emergency Response Plan contemplates
the sharing of resources in order to provide the citizens of the City of Owen Sound and
Grey County with an effective, planned and cooperative approach to emergency
management.
During an emergency, the City Manager may request assistance from other
municipalities in Grey County. See Appendix Q for the complete mutual assistance
program including, but not limited to, in the form of Building Official personnel, services,
equipment and/or material.
It is recognized that, in the event of a large scale emergency involving several or all of
the nine area municipalities, the ability of Grey County to provide staff to all nine EOCs
and the County EOC may become strained, in which case the local area municipality
may receive assistance from those agencies by communications link, rather than a
direct presence in the local EOC.
Testing of the Plan
Annual exercises will be conducted in order to test the overall effectiveness of this Plan
and provide training to the Emergency Control Group and on-site personnel. Revisions
to this Plan should incorporate recommendations stemming from such exercises.
Internal Procedures & Processes
Each department and service involved with this Plan will prepare functional emergency
procedures or guidelines outlining how it will fulfill its responsibilities during an
emergency.
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Each department and service will ensure that it designates a member of its staff to
maintain and revise its own emergency procedures or guidelines.
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
Checklist in Consideration of a Declaration of Emergency
(Note: All references in this document refer to the Emergency Management and Civil
Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter E.9, as amended 2006)
* This checklist is for use by municipal heads of council considering the declaration
of an emergency within their municipality. This checklist is not intended to provide
any sort of legal advice - it is merely a reference tool.
An emergency is defined under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act
as "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" [Section 1, definition of an
emergency].
Under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, only the head of council
of a municipality (or his or her designate) and the Lieutenant Governor in Council or
the Premier have the authority to declare an emergency. The Premier, the head of
council, as well as a municipal council, have the authority to terminate an emergency
declaration [Sections 4 (1), (2), (4)].
An emergency declaration may extend to all, or any part of the geographical area
under the jurisdiction of the municipality [Section 4 (1)].
If the decision is made to declare an emergency, the municipality must notify
Emergency Management Ontario (on behalf of the Minister of Community Safety and
Correctional Services) as soon as possible [Section 4 (3)]. Although a verbal
declaration of emergency is permitted, all declarations should ultimately be made in
writing to ensure proper documentation is maintained. Written declarations should
be made on municipal letterhead, using the template provided by Emergency
Management Ontario, and should be faxed to (416) 314-0474. When declaring an
emergency, please notify the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre at 1-866-314-
0472.
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
When considering whether to declare an emergency, a positive response to one or
more of the following criteria may indicate that a situation, whether actual or
anticipated, warrants the declaration of an emergency:
General and Government:
Is the situation an extraordinary event requiring extraordinary
measures?
[Section 4 (1) permits a head of council to "take such action and make such
orders as he or she considers necessary and are not contrary to law" during
an emergency.]
Does the situation pose a danger of major proportions to life or
property? [Section 1, definition of an emergency]
Does the situation pose a threat to the provision of essential services
(e.g., energy, potable water, sewage treatment/containment, supply
of goods or medical care)? [Some situations may require extraordinary
measures be taken or expenditures be made to maintain or restore essential
services. A declaration of emergency may allow a head of council to expend
funds outside of his or her spending resolutions and/or the regular approval
process of the municipality.]
Does the situation threaten social order and the ability to govern?
[Whether due to a loss of infrastructure or social unrest (e.g., a riot), a crisis
situation has the potential to threaten a council's ability to govern. In such
cases, extraordinary measures may need to be taken. Section 4 (1) provides
for extraordinary measures, not contrary to law. Section 55 (1) of the Police
Services Act provides for the creation of special policing arrangements during
an emergency.]
Is the event attracting significant media and/or public interest?
[Experience demonstrates that the media and public often view the
declaration of an emergency as a decisive action toward addressing a crisis.
It must be made clear that an "emergency" is a legal declaration and does not
indicate that the municipality has lost control. An emergency declaration
provides an opportunity to highlight action being taken under your municipal
emergency response plan.]
Has there been a declaration of emergency by another level of
government? [A declaration of emergency on the part of another level of
government (e.g., lower-tier, upper-tier, provincial, federal) may indicate that
you should declare an emergency within your municipality. For example, in
the event of a widespread disaster affecting numerous lower-tier
municipalities within a county, the county will likely need to enact its
emergency response plan and should strongly consider the declaration of an
emergency. In some cases, however, a declaration of emergency by a higher
level of government may provide sufficient authorities to the lower-tier
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
communities involved (e.g., municipalities operating under the authority of a
provincial or federal declaration).]
Legal:
Might legal action be taken against municipal employees or councilors
related to their actions during the current crisis? [Section 11 (1) states
that "no action or other proceeding lies or shall be instituted against a member
of council, an employee of a municipality, an employee of a local services
board, an employee of a district social services administration board, a
minister of the Crown, a Crown employee or any other individual acting
pursuant to this Act or an order made under this Act for any act done in good
faith in the exercise or performance or the intended exercise or performance
of any power or duty under this Act or an order under this Act or for neglect
or default in the good faith exercise or performance of such a power or duty."
Section 11 (3), however, states "subsection (1) does not relieve a municipality
of liability for the acts or omissions of a member of council or an employee of
the municipality...."]
Are volunteers assisting? [The Workplace Safety and Insurance Act
provides that persons who assist in connection with a declared emergency are
considered "workers" under the Act and are eligible for benefits if they become
injured or ill as a result of the assistance they are providing. This is in addition
to workers already covered by the Act.]
Operational:
Does the situation require a response that exceeds, or threatens to
exceed the capabilities of the municipality for either resources or
deployment of personnel? [Section 4 (1) permits the head of council to
"take such action and make such orders as he or she considers necessary and
are not contrary to law to implement the emergency plan." Section 13 (3)
empowers a municipal council to "make an agreement with the council of any
other municipality or with any person for the provision of any personnel,
service, equipment or material during an emergency."]
Does the situation create sufficient strain on the municipal response
capability that areas within the municipality may be impacted by a
lack of services, thereby further endangering life and property outside
areas directly affected by the current crisis? [Some situations may
require the creation of special response agreements between the municipality
and other jurisdictions, private industry, non-government organizations, etc.
Section 13 (3) states that the "council of a municipality may make an
agreement with the council of any other municipality or with any person for
the provision of personnel, service, equipment or material during an
emergency."]
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
Is it a consideration that the municipal response may be of such
duration that additional personnel and resources may be required to
maintain the continuity of operations? [In the event of a large-scale
crisis, such as an epidemic or prolonged natural disaster, municipal resources
may not be able to sustain an increased operational tempo for more than a
few days. This is particularly true if emergency workers are injured or become
ill as a result of the crisis. In such a case, the municipality may need to utilize
outside emergency response personnel. Section 13 (3) provides for mutual
assistance agreements between municipalities.]
Does, or might, the situation require provincial support or resources?
[Provincial response (e.g., air quality monitoring, scientific advice, airlift
capabilities, material resources, etc.) may involve numerous ministries and
personnel. Activation of the municipal emergency response plan, including the
opening of the Emergency Operations Centre and meeting of the Community
Control Group, can greatly facilitate multi-agency and multi-government
response. ]
Does, or might, the situation require assistance from the federal
government (e.g., military equipment)? [Section 13 (2) authorizes the
Solicitor General, with the approval of the Lieutenant Governor in Council, to
make agreements with the federal government. In Canada, federal emergency
assistance is accessed through, and coordinated by, the province. The
declaration of an emergency may assist a municipality in obtaining federal
assistance.]
Does the situation involve a structural collapse? [Structural collapses
involving the entrapment of persons may require the deployment of one or
more Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR) teams. Ontario has a HUSAR
team. This team is specially equipped and trained to rescue persons trapped
as a result of a structural collapse. Any municipality in the province can
request a HUSAR deployment to a declared emergency. Requests for HUSAR
resources should be made through your local mutual aid fire coordinator.
Approval for the dispatch of the HUSAR team comes from the Commissioner
of Emergency Management.]
Is the situation a large-scale or complex chemical, biological,
radiological, or nuclear (CBRN) incident? [Response to CBRN incidents
requires specialized resources and training. Ontario is developing three CBRN
teams to respond to incidents throughout the province. CBRN teams are only
dispatched to declared emergencies. Requests for a CBRN deployment should
be made through your local mutual aid fire coordinator. Approval for the
dispatch of CBRN teams comes from the Commissioner of Emergency
Management.]
Does the situation require, or have the potential to require the
evacuation and/or shelter of people or animals [livestock] from your
municipality? [Evacuee and reception centres often use volunteers as staff.
As noted above, the declaration of an emergency enacts certain parts of the
Workplace Insurance and Safety Act related to volunteer workers. Secondly,
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
an evacuation or sheltering of citizens has the potential to generate issues
pertaining to liability. Section 11 of the Emergency Management and Civil
Protection Act may provide municipal councilors and employees with certain
protections against personal liability.]
Will
your
municipality
be
receiving
evacuees
from
another
community? [The issues discussed in the previous bullet may apply equally
to municipalities accepting evacuees.]
Economic and Financial:
Does the situation pose a large-scale disruption to routine patterns of
transportation, or re-routing of large numbers of people and vehicles?
[The rerouting of people and vehicles poses a potential liability risk. Keeping
persons from their homes and delaying commercial traffic are both sensitive
issues. Section 11 of the Act may provide certain protection from liability.
Section 4 (1) allows for extraordinary measures to be taken, providing they
are not contrary to law.]
Is an event likely to have a long term negative impact on a
community's economic viability/sustainability, including resulting
unemployment, lack of available banking services and restorative
measures necessary to re-establish commercial activity? [The
declaration of an emergency may facilitate the ability of the municipality to
respond to economic losses.]
Is it possible that a specific person, corporation, or other party has
caused the situation? [Section 12 states that "where money is expended or
cost is incurred by a municipality or the Crown in the implementation of an
emergency plan or in connection with an emergency, the municipality or the
Crown, as the case may be, has a right of action against any person who
caused the emergency for the recovery of such money or cost...."]
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
DECLARATION OF AN EMERGENCY
I, ______________________________________ as Head of Council for the
(Mayor or Designate)
City of Owen Sound hereby declare an emergency in accordance with the Emergency
Management and Civil Protection Act RSO 1990, S. 4.(1) due to the emergency
described herein:
For the geographical area within the City of Owen Sound described as:
Signed: ____________________________________________
Title: ______________________________________________
Dated:__________________________________ at ____________ (time)
Note: Fax to Provincial Emergency Operations Centre Duty Officer at 1-416-314-0474
OR Email to: [email protected]
After faxing, a call must be made to the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) to
ensure they have received the form. Please call them at 1-866-314-0472.
Notify:
Provincial Emergency Operations Centre Duty Officer
City of Owen Sound Council Members
CAO and Warden of Grey County
Staff
Public
Neighbouring Municipal Officials
Local Member of Parliament (MP)
City of Owen Sound Emergency Response Plan
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Revised June 13, 2023
12.
TERMINATION OF A DECLARED EMERGENCY
I, __________________________________________ as Head of Council for the
(Mayor or Designate)
City of Owen Sound hereby declare the emergency described herein as terminated in
accordance with the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act RSO, 1990, s.
4.(2):
Signed: ____________________________________________
Title: ______________________________________________
Dated:__________________________________ at ____________ (time)
Note: Fax to Provincial Emergency Operations Centre Duty Officer at 1-416-314-0474
OR Email to: [email protected]
After faxing, a call must be made to the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre
(PEOC) to ensure they have received the form. Please call them at 1-866-314-0472.
.
Notify:
Provincial Emergency Operations Centre Duty Officer
City of Owen Sound Council Members
CAO and Warden of Grey County
Staff
Public
Neighbouring Municipal Officials
Local Member of Parliament (MP)
Local Member of the Provincial Parliament (MPP)