Update on the spring thaw and steps being taken

Gatineau, April 20, 2017. – Rivers in the Aylmer, Gatineau and Masson-Angers sectors are overflowing. Weather forecasts and hydrological projections indicate that water levels could rise further by Saturday.

Gatineau is monitoring the situation closely and adapting its actions as it evolves, doing everything it can to ensure the safety of residents.

Quick facts

The emergency measures coordination centre is open even though emergency measures have not yet been officially declared.
- The police operations centre is also running.

●	Police and public works staff are checking roads and pathways. Appropriate signs are being posted where required.

●	Firefighters are checking homes close to where water is overflowing on pavements. - They are recommending that the inhabitants move their things to the second floor and shut off the power, if necessary.

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Sandbags are being filled and distributed to the different sites. - More than 12,000 bags have been distributed to the different sites since yesterday. - Crews are filling approximately 1,500 bags an hour for residents. - Close to 60,000 bags were bought and ordered this week, and half of them have been received. - By tomorrow, they will all have been received. - Gatineau is continuing to search for and order bags.

●	We ask that residents limit the number of sandbags they request to their needs. - Sandbags are to be used to protect homes and possessions, not gardens.

●	The following streets remain closed to traffic: - Rue Jacques Cartier between Prince-Albert and Saint-Louis - Rue Saint-Louis between Moreau and Blais

●	Avoid driving unnecessarily in flooded sectors. - If you must drive there, please proceed very slowly in order to avoid making waves, and to ensure the safety of the people nearby.

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Gatineau is continuing to spread stones along certain portions of chemin du Fer-à-cheval (Masson-Angers sector). - The purpose of this measure is to raise the road so that it can remain in operation longer. Stones have also been spread on other portions of chemin du Fer-à-cheval and on rue Hurtubise.

●	Reminder: it is important to always approach waterways with caution. - Cyclists must avoid using flooded pathways and bike paths.

●	Important safety tip reminder: generators should only be run outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. - As well, fuel-combustion appliances (heater, lawnmower, chainsaw, generator, etc.) must never be used in closed or poorly ventilated areas

●	Text message alerts have been set up. Residents in affected areas should sign up (through the Web site) to receive the messages.

●	The Web site is updated as soon as new information becomes available. It is certainly the best source of information for residents.

●	Reminder: residents are asked to remain vigilant and to call 311 to report any disturbing situation. If the safety of people or property is at risk, they should call 911.

●	Gatineau thanks residents for their cooperation.

Associated links

Web site

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