Human-made Hazards

We have prepared for deliberate, human caused hazards. See the list below for information on what to do if you experience these hazards in Saugeen Shores.

Spread of Disease or Bacteria

Biological Threats: What to Know?

Biological agents (like bacteria or viruses) can be deliberately released to cause illness or death. If you believe you’ve been exposed, contact public health authorities immediately. They may recommend post-exposure treatments such as antibiotics.

Do not take antibiotics in advance, as it may:

Cause harmful side effects

Increase drug-resistant bacteria

Create shortages of drug supply

Bomb Threat

You may receive a bomb threat in different ways:

Letter or electronic message

If you receive a note or electronic message, call the police immediately at 9-1-1 and notify all those in the building to evacuate the premises.

Call

If you receive a call about a bomb threat, stay calm and try to get as much information as possible from the caller. Although this might be hard, try to note any unique features about the voice and any background sounds you hear over the phone. Try to record every word that is said. The police will ask for this information.

Try to note:

If the speaker is male or female

If the speaker has an accent

If the voice is disguised, muffled or funny sounding

If the voice is shrill or deep

Any background noises

Any indoor or outdoor sounds

After the call

Call the police immediately at 9-1-1. Then call your building manager, if applicable. Notify all those in the building to evacuate the premises.

As well:

Do not touch any suspicious packages

Once outside, avoid standing in front of windows or other hazardous areas

Do not block the street, as the roads need to be kept clear for emergency officials

If you are inside a building during an explosion, get under a sturdy table or desk and avoid tall structures like bookshelves or lights. Ensure your own safety before helping others

Chemical Releases

Chemical Threats

Exposure to chemicals, whether household, industrial, or used as weapon, can lead to serious harm.

In Case of Accidental Spills:

Evacuate if instructed

Avoid the site

Report helpful information to police

Follow emergency responder instructions

Chemical Terrorism

If you suspect a chemical has been released:

Evacuate the area immediately

Avoid inhaling fumes

Call 9-1-1

Monitor your symptoms (breathing, heart rate, sweating, dizziness, skin tone)

What to Do

You may be told to evacuate, seal indoors, or move to higher ground. After removal from the affected area, you may need decontamination before receiving treatment. Share your symptoms with medical personnel for further guidance.

Fire

Create a Home Fire Escape Plan

If you don’t already have a fire escape plan, now is the time to make one.

During a Fire:

Stay low to the ground as smoke and heat rise

Check doors before opening

Use the back of your hand to feel the doorknob

If it’s cool, open slightly and check for a safe exit

If it’s hot, do not open, find another way out

For details on local fire prevention programs, visit our Fire Department page.

Suspicious Packages

Suspicious Packages: What to Do

If you receive a suspicious package at home or work, do not open it.

Warning Signs Include:

No return address

Mailed from a foreign country

Strange odor or stains

Excessive postage

Misspelled words or poor labeling

Protruding wires or unusual shapes

Addressed vaguely (e.g., “Manager”)

Leaking, rigid, lopsided, or makes noise

Crystals, powder, or liquid inside

Unexpected contents or threats

If You Opened It:

Leave it where it is—don’t touch it again

Evacuate the room and close the door

Call 9-1-1

Remove contaminated clothing and tell police

Wash hands or shower with soap and warm water

Inform building management or security

Wait for emergency responders in a safe location

Town of Saugeen Shores
600 Tomlinson Drive, P.O. Box 820
Port Elgin, ON N0H 2C0
Phone 519-832-2008
Toll Free 1-866-832-2008
Fax 519-832-2140