Immediate Release

The Township of Ramara Declares State of Emergency in response to the aftermath of the ice storm

Ramara, ON/ March 31, 2025 – The Township of Ramara has declared a State of Emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act due to the severe impacts of the ice storm. 

The decision comes amid the impacts of the ice storm, which have resulted in widespread power outages, intermittent communications issues, and downed trees and power lines across the Township. 

“The declaration enables the Township to access additional resources for emergency response, ensuring the health and safety of our residents. Our top priority is keeping everyone safe, so I urge residents to stay home and avoid all non-essential travel. Township staff are diligently working to clear roads and respond to downed trees. Since communication may be intermittent, please restrict your calls to emergency purposes only.” 

Mayor Basil Clarke

Service Update 

• The Township Administration Building, located at 2297 Highway 12, is open until 4:30 p.m. for residents to access to charge their devices, use the public facilities, and get warm.
• Please note that Township daytime phone access is limited; however, residents can continue to report downed trees on public property or damaged roads by calling the After-Hours line at 705-484-5374, option 9, or online at www.ramara.ca/reportit. 

• The Ramara Centre will remain closed today (March 31). 

• Operations crews are working to clear roads and respond to down trees. 

• Emergency services remain fully operational and are responding to calls throughout the Township.  

• Ramara Fire and Rescue Services has a high volume of calls and asks the public to call 9-1-1 only in an emergency.  

Residents are advised to continue to stay in their homes and off the roads. This will ensure that Township staff, emergency services, and Hydro One can respond effectively. 

Important Safety Reminders 

• Stay at least 10 metres away from downed hydro lines and report them to Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235. 

• Use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fire. 

• Never use barbecues, propane heaters, or generators indoors – carbon monoxide can be fatal. 

• Keep sump pumps operating and drains clear to help prevent flooding from melting ice. 

Power Outage Safety Tips 

Residents are encouraged to follow these safety precautions during power outages: 

• Stay warm using blankets and layered clothing 

• Never use generators indoors or near open doors or windows due to carbon monoxide risk 

• Do not use barbecues, gas stoves, or camp stoves inside 

• Keep fridge and freezer doors closed to preserve food 

• Use battery-powered lights instead of candles 

• If you have an electric vehicle, please ensure that it is unplugged to prevent damage to your vehicle and reduce power surges 

Additional Public Health Resources: 

Residents are encouraged to review the following emergency preparedness and safety resources from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit: 

• Cleaning up after a flood 

• Drinking water safety after a power outage 

• Food safety and other emergency tips 

Reporting Information 

• Report power outages or get updates directly from Hydro One. 

• Website: https://www.hydroone.com/outages 
• Call: 1-800-434-1235 
• Text “outage” to 92887 (WATTS) 
• Downed power lines: Stay at least 10 metres back and call 9-1-1 immediately. You can also report downed lines to Hydro One. 

• Downed trees or damage to local roads: Call the After-Hours line at 705-484-5374, option 9, or report it online at www.ramara.ca/reportit. 

• To report an emergency, please call 9-1-1. 

Stay Up to Date 

The Township of Ramara will continue to monitor impacts and provide updates to residents on the State of Emergency through the following communication channels: 

• Alertable 

• News and Notices page 

• Social Media 

-30-

Media Contact

Ashley Watson

Manager of Business, Communications and Community Engagement

Township of Ramara

705-484-5374 ext.322