Pickering announced that it has partnered with the Region of Durham and Farm 911: The Emily Project on a new safety initiative to assist first responders in quickly locating rural properties in emergency situations.
Large properties with multiple entrances in rural settings can pose unique challenges for first responders, and the goal of this project is to create address markers and clear signage to aid in access and response time.
Farm 911: The Emily Project was founded by the parents of seven-year-old Emily Trudeau, who died in a farming accident in Tweed in 2014. First responders were delayed in helping Emily as they could not locate the scene.
“Every second counts in an emergency situation,” said Mayor Dave Ryan. “This is especially true in remote locations, without a clear address. We need to support our first responders in helping those in need in whatever way we can.”
“I urge all rural landowners to get in touch and see how we may be able to help,” said Fire Chief John Hagg. “In the event of an emergency, no one should have to wait helplessly for first responders to find them.”
This voluntary safety initiative encourages rural landowners to request a civic address and a sign for their property’s secondary entrance. There is no cost to the landowner to get a second address, or to install the sign.
The Region of Durham is providing financing for the manufacture and supply of signs in Pickering. Please contact the City Development Department at 905.420.4660 ext. 4617 or geomatics@pickering.ca to apply.