We live in the unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people
Emergencies can happen at any time and without warning. While emergencies are often out of our control, our response to an emergency is very much in our control. With a little preparation, residents and businesses can respond quickly to help themselves and others. This can be done with the creation of household/business emergency plans and putting together an emergency kit.
In the case of a local or regional disaster, know that you’re not alone.
The Regional Emergency Management Organization (REMO) exists to provide organized support in the event of an emergency.
Working with the Emergency Measure Organization of Nova Scotia, the REMO helps coordinate the overall emergency response by establishing the formal link between the municipal government, responders, and other stakeholders. The REMO command centre for Pictou County is the New Glasgow Police Station.
The REMO’s non-emergency role is to work with partners to identify hazards and to plan and prepare for emergencies. Municipal leaders, municipal staff representatives, emergency response organizations and volunteers continually work to review and improve emergency response procedures, standards and provide training and information sessions.
Building an Emergency Kit
Getting or making an emergency kit is a very important step in ensuring you are prepared in the event of an emergency. According to Red Cross Canada, you should have an emergency preparedness kit in your home with enough supplies to meet the needs of your entire household for at least 3 days.Building a kit might seem expensive, but it doesn’t need to be, and is worth the effort. By taking the time now to store food, water and supplies, you can provide for yourself and your family in an emergency.For tips and to view a full checklist to build an emergency kit, or to purchase an emergency kit, visit redcross.ca.
Building/Buying an Emergency Kit
Do you have a family emergency plan?
It will only take you about 20 minutes to create one online.
Do you have a 72-hour plan?
In an emergency, you will need some basic supplies. You may already have a flashlight but could you find it in the dark? An emergency kit should be well-organized and easy to retrieve if your family has to evacuate or get by without power or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. For more information on preparing for an emergency, consult the 72-hour Emergency Preparedness Guide.
Contact Info
REMO Pictou County
REMO Regional Emergency Management Organization Pictou County 
The REMO Coordinator
The role of the Regional Emergency Management Coordinator is to aid municipal units with planning for emergencies, provide public information about the diverse types of emergencies, and work with both local and provincial agencies during an emergency to mitigate the effects of the situation.
John Davison is the Pictou REMO Coordinator. John is a committed emergency manager, dedicated fire service chief officer and community leader. He has served as a firefighter for 43 years, is a trained medical first responder, and also serves on the board of directors for the Nova Scotia Fire School.
John Davison (left) receives the 2021 Ian MacKinnon Interoperability Award. The award is given to a team or individual who has done the most to support interoperable communications for first response during the course of the year.
Helpful Links
For more information on emergency preparedness in Nova Scotia you can visit the following sites:
- Get Prepared
- The Disaster Animal Response Preparedness Checklist for Animals
- Lunenburg County REMO
- Nova Scotia Emergency Management Office
- Nova Scotia Provincial Plow Tracker
- Nova Scotia Power – Critical Customer Communication Program
- Red Cross – Hurricanes: Before, During and After
- Red Cross of Canada
Engine 33.5
The Members of the Department recently refurbished this Go-Cart. The mini fire engine will be used as a public relations tool at events around the community. Thanks to all of the members and staff who finish this project the Department now has this great new way to engage with the public.
Ladder 33
Ladder 33 is a 2005 Crimson 75-foot aerial. It carries 200 gallons of water and has a 1250 GPM pump. The ladder can also be used in rescue situations to recover victims from heights or areas not easily accessible. Below is a photo of Ladder 33 in action.
Engine 33
Engine 33 Is a 2019 Fort Garry pumper. It carries 1000 gallons of water and has a 1250 GPM pump. This truck will respond to our neighbouring departments area to lend assistance.
Rescue 33 is a 2007 Pierce Rescue/ Pumper. It carries 700 gallons of water and has a 1050 GPM pump. This truck responds to motor vehicle accidents in town and around the county. Below is a photo of Rescue 33 responding to an industrial fire.
Auxillary 33
Auxiliary 33 Is a 2012 F450 van body truck. This truck carries the members' protective firefighting gear. It also has room to be a command post if necessary.
Utility 33
Utility 33 is a 2006 ¾-ton GMC pickup. This truck is used to haul the boat trailer and the hazmat trailers. It is also used for scene support at major calls to transport members and equipment.
Marine 33
Marine 33 Is a 16-foot inflatable boat to allow our members to do water rescue and assist in searches. It is also used for patrols when events are going on in or around the river.
Hazmat Trailers A & B
There are 2 hazmat trailers. Trailer A is the technical trailer with response equipment for hazmat situations. Trailer B is the major spill trailer used to control fluid spills.
