Flood and Wildfire Preparedness planning activities have kicked off this month via the Local Emergency Management Organization (LEMO). Various household emergency preparedness information is available at www.hayriver.com/emergency . Updates to the website will be made throughout the breakup and wildfire seasons.

A preparedness brochure has been mailed through Canada Post to all residents this week.

A public information meeting is scheduled for May 6th at 7pm to provide residents with information on the latest risk assessments and to share emergency preparedness information.

Climate change is affecting Hay River and the North. People are seeing more extreme heat, wildfire smoke, drought, and severe weather. These events can affect health and safety, damage homes and infrastructure, interrupt essential services, and change daily routines.

The Town of Hay River is creating a Climate Adaptation Plan to better understand:

• how climate change is affecting residents
• how concerned people are
• what actions and priorities matter most to the community

As part of the project’s engagement plan, a public survey has been released.   Thank you for taking the time to provide your thoughts.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/hayriverCAP

This survey should take around 5 minutes to complete.

The Town of Hay River reminds residents to use water regularly throughout the day to help prevent residential water and sewer service lines from freezing.

Homes with installed bleeders should ensure they are turned on. Ground frost levels are deeper than usual this year, increasing the risk of service line freeze-ups. Frost conditions typically continue to worsen through the spring and often last into May.

Homes with lower water use may wish to run warm water intermittently throughout the day to maintain flow. If you are travelling out of town, ensure someone checks on your property and runs water several times per day for at least five minutes.

Frozen indoor pipes should be addressed by a plumbing or steaming contractor.

Several recent service line freeze-ups have been reported near the north end of Stewart Drive and the south end of McBryan Drive. Residents in these areas are encouraged to remain vigilant and take preventative measures.

Residents experiencing repeated service line freeze-ups despite regular water use may contact the Town’s Public Works Division at townhall@hayriver.com or (867) 874-6522 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Director of Infrastructure & Planning Services

Keith Straub

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 13, 2026

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