Provincial funding from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry announced in January will enable Norfolk County to purchase gas monitoring equipment to strengthen Norfolk’s ability to respond to legacy gas well emergencies.
Led by the Norfolk County Fire Department, Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit, and staff from across the organization, funds will be used to purchase additional gas monitoring equipment with extended monitoring capabilities and remote security equipment to enhance public safety and increase the security of affected sites.
Provincial funding will also be used to educate emergency responders and other County staff on the dangers of legacy gas wells, including exposure to hydrogen sulphide (H2S), a dangerous gas that can be released at well sites.
Norfolk will also launch a public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the dangers of exposure to gases from abandoned and leaking gas wells, including hydrogen sulphide and methane. The campaign will include information on what residents can do if they suspect they have found a leaking legacy gas well in Norfolk County. Updated and enhanced signage will also be installed to alert members of the public of safety risks.
“The health and safety of our residents is the top priority for Norfolk County, and we will use the funding provided by the Province for targeted risk reduction efforts that will benefit all residents,” said Norfolk Mayor Amy Martin. “Whether you live or travel near a legacy gas well or simply reside in Norfolk County, you can be confident that Norfolk Council and staff take emergency preparedness seriously.”
To learn more about the risks of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and methane gas, visit NorfolkCounty.ca/h2s.
