Public Advisories & Alerts

FREDERICTON (GNB) – New Brunswickers who are still without power following Saturday’s severe windstorm should consider contacting the Canadian Red Cross if they need assistance.

The agency’s toll-free line is now activated. Residents can call 1-800-863-6582 for assistance. The Red Cross can provide temporary accommodations for people in need.

A current list of warming centres and charging stations across the province is available online. Residents should check with local authorities to see if their community has additional warming centres and charging stations.

NB Power update

NB Power has 200 crews working provincewide to assess the damage and restore electricity as quickly and safely as possible. Additional crews from neighbouring provinces have been contacted to join the restoration effort. Estimated times of restoration for most areas are now available on the NB Power website.

The utility advises residents to stay at least 10 metres from downed power lines, and to call 911 if there is an immediate safety concern. Residents should not attempt to prune or remove trees on lines, as direct or indirect contact with power lines can be fatal.

Residents are asked to remain patient while crews work to repair damage and restore power as quickly as possible.

Carbon monoxide warning

The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization (NBEMO) has been made aware of a case of carbon monoxide poisoning. A report issued today indicates that four people in one household were intoxicated by carbon monoxide overnight because they were using a generator inside their home.

With the widespread power outages, New Brunswickers are reminded of the threat that carbon monoxide can pose in their homes. People have died or been hospitalized in recent years because of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Residents are advised to never run a generator in a home, garage, or near a window or air intake outside of a home. It is not safe to use a barbecue, camping stove or propane heater inside a house or garage. More information about the dangers of carbon monoxide is available online.

Food safety

People are reminded to avoid opening freezers or fridges unless it is absolutely necessary. If the door remains closed, a full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours without electricity. These products can be refrozen if ice crystals are still present. All perishable food in a refrigerator without electricity for more than 24 hours should be discarded.

People with medical concerns who are affected by power outages are encouraged to call Tele-Care 811.

NBEMO and its emergency management partners continue to monitor the situation across the province.

In the event of an emergency, call 911. Residents are asked to check on neighbours who may need assistance.

All New Brunswickers should continue to monitor conditions and local forecasts.