Page Category: Services

  • Water & Wastewater Services

    The Municipality of Meaford provides water and wastewater services to approximately 2,300 residential, commercial and institutional customers. On this page, you can find more information on paying your water bill, water testing, winter water maintenance, current projects, and view annual reports on municipal water and wastewater services.

    For after-hours urgent issues, call (888) 525-7024.

    Interactive Map

    Locate and understand how water and wastewater services and facilities work within the Municipality of Meaford with our interactive map.

    Testing Private Drinking Water

    Want to know how pure your water is? Grey Bruce Health Unit has partnered with the Municipality of Meaford to open a Well Water Sample Drop-Off Location in Meaford, located at 21 Trowbridge Street West. 

    Samples will be picked up weekly at 9:40 a.m. each Friday, and must be dropped off within 24 hours of the pick-up time. Sample bottles are available for pick up at the drop-off address. 

    Water testing is free, and part of a complimentary program offered by Public Health Ontario for residents with property on wells and with other private drinking systems. For more information, please visit Grey Bruce Public Health.

    Hydrant and Sewer Flushing

    Each year, we flush hydrants and sewer lines to keep systems clean and functioning properly.

    Hydrant Flushing – Urban Meaford

    Hydrant flushing is underway from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Thursday, and will continue through October.

    You may notice:

    • Slight water discoloration or cloudiness
    • Reduced pressure during flushing
    • Water on roads or puddles after flushing

    If water is discoloured:
    Run the cold tap in your bathtub until it clears. This tap is best as it has no screen to trap sediment.

    Sewer Flushing & Blow-Back

    As part of regular maintenance, the Municipality of Meaford cleans sanitary sewer mains using a Vactor truck. This process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes per section between maintenance chambers (manholes), typically located in the center of the road.

    This work may be noisy and can create a temporary vacuum in the pipe, which may:

    • Pull water from household plumbing traps (toilets, sinks, floor drains)
    • Cause gurgling sounds, bubbling, or minor splashing in fixtures
    • Lead to temporary sewage odours if trap water is lost

    These effects are not harmful to your plumbing.

    When the high-pressure nozzle passes your sewer lateral (on municipal property), it forces water and air a short distance up the pipe toward your home. In most homes, this air vents out through plumbing stacks. However, in some cases, especially in homes with limited venting, the air can disturb water in plumbing traps.

    If you notice odours or low water levels after flushing, simply run cold water into affected drains to restore the traps.

    Once flushing is complete, a CCTV camera will be used to inspect the sewer main. Residential service lines are not flushed or inspected.

    Winter Water Line Maintenance

    Homeowners are responsible for all water lines on their property.

    It is important that homeowners take necessary precautions before freezing temperatures increase the possibility of frozen and/or broken water lines on their property. If this occurs, it can impact water service, cause property damage, and cause damage to water meters.

    Any replacement of a frozen water meter will result in a service and replacement charge to the homeowner.

    Below are some tips and precautionary measures to protect your water service and meter:

    • Cover any exposed pipes in cold areas with insulating material and or heat tape
    • Block air passages into crawl spaces
    • Check crawl space to be sure pipes are protected
    • Secure basements against cold
    • Plug up drafty cracks and repair broken windowpanes
    • Check outside faucets
    • Remove hoses from outside faucets and check for leaks which could freeze and back up into the household plumbing.

    If you have any concerns, please contact a licensed plumber to advise the best way to ensure your water lines and meter are protected from freezing.

    Sewer Overflow

    To ensure residents stay informed and aware, signs are posted at overflow sites, with additional red warning signs added to these signs in the event of an overflow. Here’s what else you need to know:

    An overflow event happens when there is too much wastewater in the sanitary collection system, and the system can’t manage it all. If this were to happen, the extra water and sewage would flow into the environment from overflow points in the system. 

    Although overflow water is highly diluted, it still carries sewage and can pose health and environmental risks.

    Overflows are designed to direct extra wastewater into the environment to reduce the risk of:  

    • Flooding basements of homeowners nearby  
    • Flooding lands around the Wastewater Treatment Plant 
    • Harming infrastructure  

    To reduce the risk of this, the overflow of wastewater is directed into Georgian Bay or the Bighead River, where it causes less harm.

    While overflows contain mostly rainwater or snowmelt, they may still contain bacteria and should be avoided. Overflows can impact: 

    • Human health 
    • Fish and wildlife 
    • The environment

    • Expanding the wastewater treatment plant so it can handle more flow 
    • Relining sewers to limit infiltration of groundwater into the sanitary sewer 
    • Parging maintenance hole chambers to limit excess infiltration of groundwater into the sanitary sewer  
    • Smoke testing to identify improper connections and defects in the sanitary system 
    • Disconnecting the roof leads from the sanitary cleanouts to direct storm water to the correct sewer system  
    • Disconnecting sump pumps and perimeter drains from the sanitary sewer system 

    The Municipality of Meaford recently received a new Consolidated Linear Infrastructure Environmental Compliance Approval (CLI-ECA). Previously, we would have reported overflows to the Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks; we are now additionally required to identify the overflow locations with the following signs. 

    Any additional information will be shared through on-site signage, our website, social media, email alerts, and local media. 

    Resources

  • Permits, Licenses & Applications

  • Accessible Transit

    Meaford Moves+ Logo

    Whether you have a medical appointment, shopping errand, or are visiting a friend, Meaford Moves+ is an accessible door-to-door bus service that can get you there. Individuals who live in the Municipality and have a disability or mobility challenge may be eligible to use this service. Register today to start booking your trips!

    Transit services are provided throughout the Municipality of Meaford. Bookings for medical appointments to Collingwood, Thornbury, and Owen Sound are also available. For more information on this service, see the Specialized Transit Policy.

    FAQ

    Meaford Moves+ accepts users with both permanent and temporary disabilities. To qualify for Meaford Moves+, applicants must either:

    • Have a healthcare professional sign off on the application, or;
    • Provide proof of eligibility through documents such as an Accessible Parking Permit, proof of ODSP, etc.

    Disabilities include those identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code, including but not limited to physical, sensory, cognitive and mental health disabilities. Qualification is not based on your income or age.

    Scooters and electric wheelchairs (depending on their size, weight and type) are permitted on the transit bus. Please have your devices verified by the transit operator ahead of time to make sure they can fit securely.

    All prices are for one-way trips only. You may bring up to two companions with you. Companions pay the same fare. If you require a support person to use the bus, this  person travels for free.

    Local Trip – $2.00

    Trip to Owen Sound, Thornbury, or Collingwood – $8.00

    Specialized transit operates Tuesday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

    Once you have submitted your application and have your pass, just call 519-538-5577 to book your trip.

    To apply for Meaford Moves+, complete the Meaford Moves Application.

    You can either have the application form completed and signed by one of the Health Care Professionals listed in the Policy, or provide the information from a valid Ontario Accessible Parking Permit to the Municipal Office. The application must be either signed by the applicant, or signed on behalf of the applicant if he/she is incapable of signing.

    Submit your completed form to:

    Once your application is submitted and approved, you will receive your transit card in the mail.

  • Parking

    From April 2 to November 14 annually, overnight parking on streets is permitted.

    ​Parking in Meaford includes municipal lots and street parking, with specific regulations.

    Overnight Winter Parking (November 15 to April 1)

    • No parking is allowed on streets or in municipal lots between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. during these dates to facilitate snow removal.​
    • Exception: The Market Square Parking Lot at 12 Nelson Street East permits overnight parking in designated rows. Park in the ‘odd’ or ‘even’ row corresponding to the next day’s date when plowing occurs between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. For example, if parking on the 15th and leaving your vehicle overnight, use the ‘even’ row for the 16th.​

    View Market Square Parking

    Memorial Park Paid Parking (May 1 to October 31, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM)

    • Non-residents: $10/day or $100/season plus user fees. Pay by visiting the honkmobile.com with Visa, Mastercard, or Visa Debit.
    • Residents can register their vehicle for free parking in one of the following ways:
    • Online: Fill out the the registration application to self-register.
      • Once you’re application is approved by our staff, you will get an email asking you to claim your permit and register with HONK.
    • In Person: Registration is also available at during staff hours at:
      • Memorial Park Office
      • Municipal Office
    • Be sure to have proof of residency (e.g. driver’s license, tax or utility bill) and vehicle ownership documentation available.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Free parking is available at various locations (observe posted signs for restrictions.), including:

    • Berry Street (25 Berry Street)​
    • Beautiful Joe Park (162 Edwin Street)​
    • Bognor Hall (597352 Grey Road 29)​
    • David Johnston Park (128 Fuller Street)​
    • Fred Raper Park (207 Bayfield Street)​
    • Irish Mountain Lookout (265566 Sideroad 25)​
    • Legion Park (South/East corner Owen Street and Legion Road)
    • Leith Beach (359392 Grey Road 15)​
    • Meaford and St. Vincent Arena and Community Centre (151 Collingwood Street West)​
    • Meaford Harbour (3 St. Vincent Street)​
    • Memorial Park (181 Grant Avenue)
    • Nelson Street West (28 Nelson Street West)​
    • Riverside Hall (157707 7th Line)​
    • St. Vincent Park (269 Lakeshore Road)​
    • Off-leash Dog Park (25 Grant Avenue)​
    • Trowbridge St. East (22 Trowbridge Street)
    • Woodford Hall (107 Woodford Crescent)​
    • Trowbridge Street Rear Lots (15 and 21 Trowbridge Street)​
    • Meaford Public Library (11 Sykes Street North)
    • All municipal locations have accessible parking, other than those noted.

    Prohibited overnight (2:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.) from November 15 to April 1, except at Market Square Parking Lot as specified above.​​Maintain at least 3 meters from fire hydrants and 9 meters from intersections.​

    * Please note that this location does not have designated accessible parking space

    Parking tickets are issued for by-law violations.​ Payments can be made via cash, debit, or cheque at the Administration Office, 21 Trowbridge Street West, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.​

    For appeals, please contact bylaw@meaford.ca or 519-538-1060 ext. 1134.​

    To dispute a parking ticket, complete a parking action form.

  • Municipal Drains

    Municipal drains are critical pieces of rural infrastructure that help manage stormwater and protect farmland, roads, and properties from flooding. In the Municipality of Meaford, these drains are governed by the Ontario Drainage Act and are typically found in agricultural areas. 

    What is a Municipal Drain?

    Municipal drains are typically located in agricultural or rural areas and are legally constructed drainage systems created through formal proceedings under the Ontario Drainage Act. These systems may include:

    • Open ditches
    • Enclosed pipes or tiles
    • Culverts
    • Bridges and other related structures

    Municipal drains are not natural watercourses, though they may follow or connect to them. They are created to remove excess surface water from land, particularly agricultural land, and may serve multiple property owners.

    Responsibilities Under the Drainage Act

    Under the Ontario Drainage Act, municipalities are responsible for:

    • Maintaining and repairing existing municipal drains
    • Coordinating drainage petitions for new drains or improvements
    • Ensuring assessments and cost-sharing are conducted fairly
    • Communicating with landowners impacted by drainage projects

    The Municipality of Meaford appoints a Drainage Superintendent to manage and coordinate these responsibilities and to ensure compliance with provincial legislation.

    Maintenance and Repairs

    Drain maintenance is critical to prevent flooding and waterlogging. Regular maintenance activities may include:

    • Clearing blockages
    • Removing sediment or debris
    • Repairing damaged sections
    • Vegetation control

    When maintenance is required, costs are typically shared among the landowners within the drain’s watershed area, as outlined in a prior engineer’s report. Each property’s share is based on how much it contributes to the drainage area.

    Property owners are not permitted to perform maintenance or make changes to a municipal drain on their own. Unauthorized work may cause damage or legal complications.

    Requesting Work on a Municipal Drain

    If an existing municipal drain requires:

    • Maintenance (clearing blockages, removing debris, repairing infrastructure), or
    • Minor improvements, you may request work by contacting the Municipal Drainage Superintendent below.

    If a drain needs to be improved, extended, or newly constructed, a petition must be filed under Section 4 or 78 of the Drainage Act. A petition requires support from affected landowners and must be submitted to the Municipal Clerk. Once accepted, the municipality will:

    1. Appoint an engineer
    2. Conduct a site assessment
    3. Prepare a report with recommendations and cost assessments
    4. Hold a public meeting to review the report with affected landowners
    5. Present the report to Council for decision

    This process ensures fair cost-sharing and legal compliance for all affected parties.

    Current Drainage Projects

    The following municipal drain projects are in progress or under review through the Drainage Act process.

    Flooding and erosion in the Paradise Bay and Bayshore Road area led to a drainage petition under the Drainage Act. 

    Initiated by a petition under the drainage act, this project addresses ponding and erosion in rural agricultural lands near 2nd Concession North. A 576 m closed drainage system is planned for construction in 2025. 

  • Water & Wastewater Billing

    As part of the 2026 budget, the Municipality of Meaford is updating how water and wastewater bills are calculated, effective February 1, 2026. These updates move the community toward a more consumption‑based user pay system that ties your bill more directly to the amount of water your household uses.

    Read the full notice

    Understanding Your Water Bill

    Take a look at this example of a water bill to see exactly what to expect. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each charge:

    • Service Charge: A fixed fee that covers water and/or sewer service.
    • Water Charge: Based on your monthly water consumption, measured in cubic meters.
    • Sewer Charge: Based on your monthly water consumption, measured in cubic meters.
    • Additional Fees: Any extra charges related to specific services or infrastructure projects.

    View water and wastewater rates

    Paying Your Water Bill

    There are several ways to pay your bill:

    • Through your Bank– Pay at the teller or through online banking. Be sure to use the water account number as the payee reference. Depending on your bank, we may be referred to as Meaford PUC, Meaford Utilities, Meaford Public Utilities, or Meaford (Mun. of) Utilities. Note that payments typically take 2-3 business days. Some other helpful tips:
    • Drop the first two zeros from your customer number and enter it correctly to avoid admin fees
    • Sign up for a pre-authorized payment plan to ensure that your bills are paid on time
    • In Person– Pay at the Municipal Office (21 Trowbridge St. W, Meaford). We accept debit, cheque, and cash.
    • By Mail– Send your payment, along with the bill stub, to the Municipal Office. Please note that the Municipality is not responsible for delays in the mail.
    • By Credit Card – Visa and MasterCard are accepted as payment options. Please note that both payments incur a 1.75% fee, with a $1,000 max, and processing takes two business days.
    • Phone: 1-877-565-3799
    • Online

    To register for pre-authorized payments, please:

    If you have any questions, please contact our Tax Department or Utilities Department for assistance.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Water bills are issued monthly and are typically sent between the 20th and 23rd of each month. The due date will be the 15th (or the next business day) and is printed in the upper right corner of your bill. Please ensure that your payment is received by this date to avoid any late charges. After the due date, interest at a rate of 1.25% will be applied monthly on any outstanding balance.

    This can be caused by several factors, such as increased water usage, a leak in your system, or changes to the water rate. If your bill seems unusually high, start by checking your faucets, toilets, and pipes for potential leaks, and review your water consumption. If you have any concerns, contact our billing department for further assistance.

    If you are buying or selling a property in Meaford or need to update your contact information, complete this form to manage your account.

    Please submit your request at least 5 business days before your closing date to ensure timely processing.

    All water and wastewater accounts will be registered under the name of the property owner, who will be held ultimately responsible for all water and wastewater charges, as well as any associated fees billed to the property.

    If both the property owner and tenant agree, the utility bill can be sent under the property owner’s name, marked care of the tenant at the tenant’s address. This requires completing a property owner tenant account guarantee form.

    Final Reading Notification: The property owner must notify the Municipality of a required final reading a minimum of five (5) business days before the date a tenant vacates or occupies the property. Notification must be made in writing via the form available at the Municipal Office, on the website, or by email upon request.

    Arrears Notification: In cases of arrears, a statement of account will be mailed to both the property owner and tenant(s) for any accounts that are over 30 days past due. A final arrears notice will be sent to the property owner if an account balance remains unpaid for 90 days or reaches an amount of $900, whichever occurs first. The notice will inform the property owner that if payment is not received by the next billing due date, the outstanding balance will be transferred to the property tax roll. The property owner will be responsible for any additional charges or penalties associated with the transfer to the tax roll.

    Some properties that are not connected to municipal water and/or wastewater will still receive a water bill. This is because of an Infrastructure Renewal Fee, a flat rate charge which is applied in the following cases:

    1. The property has water and/or wastewater infrastructure in front of it but is not connected
    2. The property is vacant but has services installed up to the property line

    These properties are included in the system’s water and wastewater capacity because they might connect at some point in the future. The fee helps cover the cost of maintaining or upgrading the infrastructure, ensuring the services are ready when needed.

    Water rates are set annually by Council via the user fees and charges by-law.

    Water Certificates are available by request with a cost of $50.00 per property. Certificate requests can be emailed to water@meaford.ca along with a copy of the cheque to be mailed to the following address, with the cheque made payable to:

    Municipality of Meaford
    Water Department
    21 Trowbridge St. W
    Meaford, ON, N4L 1A1

  • By-Law Complaints

    In the Municipality of Meaford, certain controls exist to help our community run smoothly and safely. Get to know the basics of by-laws, including how to submit a complaint.

    The key distinction is in their scope and jurisdiction; laws focus on broad legal principles and issues such as criminal law and human rights, while by-laws center on more local, everyday matters such as noise control. Enacted by federal or provincial governments, laws apply across and entire jurisdiction, and by-laws, in contrast, are enacted by municipal governments, like Meaford, and apply solely within their boundaries.

    Are there overnight parking restrictions? When are quiet hours enforced? What are the rules for swimming pool enclosures? By-laws cover crucial community standards such as these. Examples of by-laws include by-laws regarding:

    Here you can find a list of applications for various licenses and permits such as building permits and dog tags.

    Municipal Enforcement Service, led by the By-law Law Services division, is responsible for enforcing the municipalities’ by-laws on behalf of various municipal departments and divisions, including but not limited to: Building, Fire, Parks, Planning and Transportation and Roads. The Division is committed to raising awareness of community and provincial standards, providing a compliance approach with a wide range of by-laws and regulations related to canine control, fire routes and parking, land use, property and building maintenance, and the use of parks and facilities.  

    Municipal enforcement complaints can be submitted through the following channels:

    1. Online: Using the Online Service System
    2. Email: bylaw@meaford.ca 
    3. Phone:  (519) 538-1060
    4. After hours: (888) 525-7024

  • Administrative Penalty System (APS)

    What Is an Administrative Penalty System (APS)? 

    The Administrative Penalty System (APS) is a streamlined, dispute process that replaces the traditional court system for dealing with minor violations of Designated Municipal By-laws covered under the APS By-law. Instead of going through the Provincial Offences Court, APS lets the Municipality resolve these matters directly and more efficiently. 

    What to Know About the APS Program

    • APS is intended to support compliance with designated municipal by-laws through an administrative process managed by the Municipality. 
    • The initial rollout will apply to select by-laws including Noise, Nuisance, Property Standards, Open-Air Burning, Signs, and Yard and Boulevard Maintenance. 
    • More serious or ongoing matters may still be addressed through the Provincial Offences Act where appropriate. 

    The full program will be implemented in mid August of this year. Offences that occur before the implementation date will continue to be addressed through the existing process.  

    FAQ

    Although they may look similar, a Part I ticket, and a Penalty Notice are processed in different ways. Here’s how to tell the difference: 

    • Part I Ticket: Is an Offence Notice issued under the Provincial Offences Act, which is processed at the Owen Sound Court House. 
    • Penalty Notice: Is an administrative penalty to the Municipalityissued under the Municipality of Meaford’sDesignated By-laws, which are processed by the Municipality.  

    With APS, a person who receives a penalty notice will be able to either pay the penalty or request a screening review within the timeframe set out on the Penalty Notice. Instructions on the process will be provided within the Penalty Notice and on the municipal website.

    A screening review is the first level of review available under APS. If a person disagrees with a Penalty Notice after the program is implemented, they may request a review by a Screening Officer. The Screening Officer may keep, cancel or reduce the penalty, or extend the time for payment, including any administrative fee(s) based on the information provided and the applicable rules. 

    If a person disagrees with a Screening Officer’s decision, they may be able to request a hearing review by a Hearing Officer. A Hearing Officer may keep, cancel or reduce the penalty, or extend the time for payment, including any administrative fee(s) based on the information provided and the applicable rules. 

    The Hearing Officeris not required to make the same decision as the Screening Officer. 

    If the Hearing Officer agrees with the screening officer’s decision, you will be required to pay an additional‘hearing decision upheld’ fee added to your total amount due.  

    If you do not attend your hearing review, you will be charged a “non-appearance’ fee.  

    A Hearing Officer’s decision is final. 

    No. APS eliminates the need for court appearances for designated minor by-law offences. 

    Yes. APS allows for escalating penalties for repeat violations to encourage compliance. 

    No. The court system will still be used for serious offences or situations involving persistent non-compliance. 

  • Property Taxes

    Final property tax installment due dates are August 27 and October 27. To avoid late payment charges of 1.25% per month, payments must be received on or before the due date.

    Sign up for e-billing to receive your bills directly to your email and ensure you never miss a payment. 

    The Municipality of Meaford issues property tax bills twice a year. Collected on behalf of the municipality, Grey County, and local school boards, property taxes fund essential municipal services such as roads, fire protection, policing, parks, recreation, and library services. Learn more about important dates, incentives and rebate programs, and how you can pay your bills at ease and at speed. 

    Billing Schedule and Due Dates

    Interim tax bills are distributed in late January and are based on 50% of the previous year’s taxes.
    Final tax bills are distributed in late July and are calculated using the current year’s total taxes, minus the interim amounts already paid.

    For 2026, the interim bill due dates are February 24 and April 24, and the final bill due dates are August 27 and October 27.

    Payment Methods 

    Online Banking: Set up “Meaford Taxes” as a payee and use your 19-digit roll number. Note: Payments applied to the incorrect account are subject to a $20.00 administration fee.

    In Person: Pay by cheque, debit, or cash at 21 Trowbridge Street West.

    Mail: Send cheques (no cash) to the address above.

    Drop Box: Available 24/7 at the front of the municipal office.

    Credit Card: Accepted only through our online bill payment system or by calling 1-877-565-3799. A 1.75% processing fee applies. The maximum payment is $10,000.00. Please allow two business days for processing.

    Note: Late payments incur a penalty of 1.25% per month on the outstanding balance. Interest is added on the first day of each month thereafter.

    Pre-Authorized Payment Plans

    Pay monthly, with withdrawals made on the 20th or the 28th of each month, or choose to have your payments automatically withdrawn on the due date. Sign up using the registration form link below. 

    Please note: 

    • An application form and a void cheque are required
    • Annual re-enrollment is not necessary
    • We are currently transitioning to a new website, which will launch in Summer 2026. During this transition period, online registration for pre-authorized payments (for utilities and taxes) is temporarily unavailable

    To register for pre-authorized payments, please:

    If you have any questions, please contact our Tax Department or Utilities Department for assistance.

    Tax Certificates

    Lawyers or mortgage companies can request tax certificates for a fee of $75.

    Submit requests to:

    Email: tax@meaford.ca

    Mailing Address:
    Municipality of Meaford
    21 Trowbridge Street West
    Meaford, ON N4L 1A1

    Change of Mailing Address

    Property owners are responsible for updating mailing address information. Notify the Municipality if your contact information changes to ensure you receive your bills.

    Assessment Information

    Property assessments are provided by MPAC (Municipal Property Assessment Corporation). For inquiries, visit www.mpac.ca or call 1-866-296-6722.

    Tax Incentive and Rebate Programs

    Several property tax incentives and rebate programs are available. Contact the appropriate agency for eligibility and application details:

    Farm Tax Class: Agricorp–1-888-247-4999

    Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program: Ministry of Natural Resources–1-800-387-7011

    Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program: Ministry of Natural Resources–1-855-866-3847

    Low-Income Seniors or Persons with Disabilities Rebate: Annual tax relief (up to $500) is available to qualifying low-income seniors or persons with disabilities for increases in property taxes year-over-year.

    Applications are accepted from July through to December. 

    Complete the Property Tax Increase Relief form

  • Emergency Preparedness

    From natural disasters such as floods and tornados to infectious diseases and water contamination – all situations are critical and life-threatening. Disaster can strike out of nowhere, which is why the Municipality has developed an Emergency Management Program to ensure that we are prepared for any potential emergency. The program includes an Emergency Management Plan, along with public education activities, training and exercises.

    Be Prepared

    Follow these steps to make sure your preparations check all the boxes.

    Make a Plan

    During an emergency, traditional forms of communication may be an issue, as reception or internet access may be unavailable. Identify several out-of-town contacts whom you and your household members can call or message, those located a fair distance away so they will likely not be affected by the same emergency. Ensure these emergency contacts are posted somewhere easily visible in your household. 

    In the event of an evacuation, choose two safe locations, one of them close to home and the other located outside of your neighbourhood. 

    If you have pets, designate someone who can look after your furry friends if you have to evacuate your home, as only service animals are often allowed at reception centres.

    Ensure that all of your family members are informed, and are well-versed in: 

    • Utility shut-off procedures, including how to turn off main utilities such as water valves and electrical panels 
    • Evacuation routes, whether that is exiting your home through a main exit or  alternate one such as a window 
    • Fire and safety measures, including smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers
    • A list of emergency numbers, including a family doctor and police

    Make a Kit

    Your emergency kit should hold everything you and your family would need to be safe and self-sufficient for at least three days (72 hours) immediately following an emergency. Make sure yours includes these essentials: 

    • Food (non-perishable and easy-to-prepare items, enough for 3 days) and a manual can opener
    • Bottled water (4 litres per person for each day)
    • Medication(s)
    • Flashlight
    • Radio (crank or battery-run)
    • Extra batteries
    • First-aid kit
    • Candles and matches/lighter
    • Hand sanitizer or moist towelettes
    • Important papers (such as identification, contact lists, and copies of prescriptions)
    • Extra car keys and cash
    • Whistle (to attract attention, if needed)
    • Zip-lock bag (to keep things dry)
    • Garbage bags

    Discover more information and helpful tips.

    Stay Informed

    Things may change quickly during an emergency, so it is important to stay tuned to local news channels. As power outages are always a possibility, be sure to have a portable, battery-operated or crank radio in your emergency kit. Stay informed with these resources:

    Preparing for Severe Weather

    Thunderstorms & Flooding 

    Did you know that in Canada each year, there are between two and three lightning-related deaths and 180 lightning-related injuries, on average? 

    As the costliest natural hazard in terms of property damage, floods can cause power outages, shoreline erosion, and damage to roads and infrastructure. 

    Learn what to do during stormy weather.

    Winter Weather 

    Did you know that winter storms are more responsible for more deaths in Canada than tornadoes, thunderstorms, lightning, floods and hurricanes combined?  

    Discover how to stay safe during the winter months.

    Extreme Temperatures

    Extreme Cold 

    Before heading outdoors, plan ahead. Listen to the weather forecast, and dress in warm layers with a wind-resistant outer layer and warm, waterproof footwear. Wear appropriate clothes such as a scarf or facemask to cover as much exposed skin as possible. 

    Warming and cooling centres available at the community centre and the library, open during business hours. 

    Learn how to stay warm, including health risks and what to watch out for, so you can enjoy the winter weather. 

    Extreme Heat 

    Climate change is expected to bring heat waves that are more frequent, intense, and longer lasting. This may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially among the most vulnerable. Know how to stay safe, and stay cool. 

    Everybody is at risk during these extremes, though the individuals at the highest risk include:

    • Infants and young children
    • Older adults
    • Those with chronic medical conditions (such as heart disease, respiratory conditions, diabetes) or mental illnesses (such as schizophrenia, depression, dementia)
    • Those on certain types of medications (such as high blood pressure)
    • Outdoor workers (depending upon length or time and exertion levels)

    Learn more about heat-related illnesses, including symptoms and prevention.

    Municipal Emergency Management Plan

    Meaford’s Emergency Management Plan helps us protect residents, businesses and visitors in the case of an emergency. We coordinate our emergency response with a number of agencies under the direction of the Municipal Control Group.

    The Plan provides key officials, agencies and departments with important emergency response information, and outlines everyone’s roles and responsibilities in the event of an emergency. It helps us provide a centralized, controlled and coordinated response to emergencies that might happen in the Municipality of Meaford, and meets the legislated requirements of the Emergency Management Act.

    A hardcopy of the plan is available at the Meaford Fire Hall. The document is also available in other accessible formats and with communication support by request.

    Our Country’s Plan

    How does emergency preparedness work, nation-wide? 

    In Canada, emergency management is treated as a shared responsibility, relying on communication between all levels of government. As part of this integrated approach, emergencies are first handled at the municipal level, then scale up to the provincial/territorial level, and finally to the federal level if a Request for Federal Assistance (RFA) is made. In Canada, the majority of emergencies (more than 90 percent) are handled locally or at the provincial/territorial level and do not require direct federal involvement.