The Town of Espanola's Emergency Response Team subcommittee will roll out a Neighbourhood Watch Window Identification Program & Communication Back-Up Plan next week.
"This program will assist neighbours in watching out for each other," says Mayor Jill Beer. "Volunteers will be distributing packages of coloured paper with a set of instructions to doorsteps over the next week. The program will also be employed as a communication back-up plan in the event of a sustained communications disruption of more than six hours with no internet, phone, email, or cell service."
Packages will contain 4 coloured sheets of paper:
GREEN means WE ARE OKAY
YELLOW means WE NEED FOOD OR MEDICATION
BLUE means SELF-ISOLATION BY CHOICE OR BY REQUIREMENT
RED means URGENT HELP NEEDED
Residents are asked to place the coloured sheet of paper that describes their situation in a window that is easily visible from the street. If the resident does not have a window visible from the street they can insert the paper into a zip lock bag or plastic covering and tie it to the 911 sign, a tree or post at the end of the driveway. If you live in an apartment or apartment building post the coloured paper where it will be visible to others.
Neighbours are asked to look out for one another and if they see a coloured paper in a window please assist by knocking on the door, maintaining the recommended 6-foot physical distance to ask if assistance is needed.
If the person requires assistance beyond your means you are to call 911. In the event of no telephone service please drive to the OPP office or Fire Department to report the concern in person.
For general inquiries related to this program please call 869-3888.
