MONTREAL, Nov. 21, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - The Ville de Montréal's Centre de sécurité civile today coordinated a voluntary and simultaneous public warning siren test at five plants located within the urban agglomeration. Although today's test was technical, Montréal wishes to remind citizens that when the public warning sirens sound, they must take shelter.
The tests at the Labatt Brewery, Cepsa Chimie Montréal s.e.c., Chemtrade, Molson Coors and Saputo inc. enabled us to confirm the good working condition of the warning equipment. It was also an opportunity to inform the public on what to do when a siren is activated.
When the sirens sound, take shelter
In case of a toxic product release into the atmosphere that exceeds industry limits, a warning siren will be activated to alert people within the plant impact area. Although very few major industrial accidents have been reported in Montréal in the past, a risk remains, and it is vital that residents know how to react responsibly.
Proper behaviour is to seek shelter quickly inside the closest building, close the doors, windows and ventilation system. Do not pick up your children at school and avoid overloading telephone lines. These instructions will be broadcast on the radio and must be followed to ensure public safety.
Increased level of awareness of Montréal businesses
The city is being proactive and working in association with industries to minimize the consequences of a major accident on local communities and to develop a civil security reflex among citizens. The industries that took part in the siren test have adopted prevention and intervention procedures that meet the highest standards, based on standardized risk assessment.
In accordance with federal environmental emergency regulations, industries that store a large supply of dangerous substances must inform Environment Canada and their municipality, as well as implement an environmental emergency plan.
For more information on warning sirens or the Centre de sécurité civile, please visit www.ville.montreal.qc.ca/csc
SOURCE: Ville de Montréal
Source: Centre de sécurité civile de la Ville de Montréal
Information: Valérie De Gagné
Division des affaires publiques
514 872-6013
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