Preparing for Extreme Weather – When in Doubt, Call the Emergency Hotline

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Volunteers,

As the season of inclement weather approaches , now is as good a time as ever to remind you about our Emergency Hotline. If, for any reason (weather, disaster, etc.)  you’re unsure about whether the gallery is open or closed,  make the Emergency Hotline your first call. No matter what happens, this line is updated first (before staff and volunteer resources, and before your volunteer coordinators are notified).

Keep it handy:  416 977 5249

What is happening?

  • The AGO is monitoring the weather situation for the GTA as a result of Hurricane Sandy. At this time we understand that the main concern for Toronto is high winds overnight and Tuesday, along with rain.
  • The Emergency Response Team met this morning and have agreed that it’s business as usual.  Events and classes are going ahead as planned and we will be opening the Gallery tomorrow.

How will this affect me?

  • We are monitoring the situation closely and at this time we don’t believe that there will be any change in our operations tonight or tomorrow.
  • If we do make the decision to close the Gallery, we will update the AGO’s emergency phone line immediately.  Please bring the number home with you this evening and share it with your colleagues not on email.
  • AGO Emergency Line: 416-977-5249.

How often will the Emergency Line be updated?

  • The Emergency Line will be updated immediately if a decision is made that will affect our hours or operations. Should there be a closure, the message will explicitly indicate that we’re closed. Otherwise the AGO will be open for business as usual.

Are any AGO events this afternoon or this evening that will be affected?

  • Today’s events will proceed as usual – two events are scheduled this afternoon in the Weston Family Learning Centre (WFLC) and Baillie Court, and classes are scheduled tonight in WFLC. These events remain unchanged.

Is there any concern about the building with the type of weather expected?

  • We are diligently monitoring any areas of the building that may be of concern. A team is in place to address any issues that may arise.

If anything changes throughout the day, we will update you immediately.  Try and stay warm and dry and we hope to say goodbye to the Frankenstorm as soon as possible.