Some emergencies are more common or likely to occur in Belleville than others. Each type of emergency may require different actions. Learn what to do before one happens.
Signing up for Belleville Alerts ensures you receive the most up-to-date information about any emergency in Belleville. Learn more and register online today at Belleville.ca/Alerts or contact us 613-968-6481 ext. 3029 or alertsbelleville@belleville.ca.
Flooding
Flooding can happen at any time of year due to heavy rain, snow melt, ice jams or high water levels.
What to do:
- Know if you live or work in a flood-prone area
- Have an emergency plan and kit ready
- Stay informed through Quinte Conservation's flooding alerts, local news and City updates
- Move valuables to higher floors if flooding is expected
- Sandbag your home to minimize property damage
- Be ready to evacuate on short notice
- Never walk, swim, or drive through flood water and keep children and pets away
- Evacuate immediately if told to do so
- Do not eat food that has come in contact with flood waters
- Do not use flooded appliances, electrical outlets, switch boxes or fuse breaker panels until they have been checked by a qualified electrician
Power Outages
Power outages can happen at any time and may last for several hours or days.
What to do:
- Keep an emergency kit with flashlights and extra batteries
- Keep fridge and freezer doors closed to protect food
- Use generators outdoors only, away from windows and doors
- Never use gas appliances to heat your home
- Unplug electronics to prevent damage
- Use candles carefully and never leave them unattended
- Make sure carbon monoxide detectors work and have backup batteries
Human Health Emergency (Pandemic)
A pandemic happens when an infectious disease spreads widely.
What to do:
- Wash your hands often
- Keep distance from others when possible
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Avoid contact with people who are sick
- Stay home if you feel unwell
- Follow advice from public health officials
Winter Weather
Winter storms can include heavy snow, freezing rain, blizzards, and extreme cold.
What to do:
- Stay home during severe weather if possible
- Dress in warm, waterproof and windproof layers
- Check road and weather conditions before travelling
- Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle
Extreme Heat
Extreme heat can be dangerous, especially for older adults, children, outdoor workers and pets.
What to do:
- Limit time outdoors during hot weather
- Avoid strenuous activities
- Drink plenty of water
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
- Never leave people or pets in a parked car
- Watch for signs of heat illness
- Check on vulnerable family members and neighbours
- Make sure pets have water and shade
Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms may include lightning, heavy rain, hail and strong winds.
What to do:
If you are outdoors:
- Avoid water, high ground, power lines and lone trees
- Take shelter in a sturdy building if possible
- If no shelter is available, move to a low area and stay low
If you are indoors:
- Stay away from windows and glass doors
- Be ready to shelter in a basement or interior room
- Avoid using running water
Emergency Preparedness Resources
- Emergency Management Ontario
- Electrical Safety Authority
- Hydro One
- Elexicon Energy
- Public Safety Canada
- GetPrepared.ca
- Canadian Red Cross
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.