Flooding and power outage resources
If you have been affected by flooding or power outages, here are some resources that may help.
🚨 If there is an immediate danger
Call 9-1-1 if there is an immediate threat to life or safety, such as electrical hazards, fire, gas leaks, or someone requiring urgent medical assistance.
🏛️ City of Ottawa – 3-1-1
Call 3-1-1 (or 613-580-2400 if outside Ottawa)
Contact 3-1-1 for:
Flood-related information and City services
Reporting non-emergency issues
Information about emergency financial assistance through Employment and Social Services
Questions about municipal services affected by flooding or power outages
City of Ottawa Emergency Information
City of Ottawa Emergency Preparedness↗
🤝 Community and Social Services – 2-1-1
Call or text 2-1-1 (available 24/7)
2-1-1 can connect you with:
Community organizations
Emergency food and basic needs
Financial assistance programs
Housing and social supports
Mental health and crisis services
Local charities and community agencies
Learn more:
💰 Emergency Financial Assistance
If flooding has caused a financial crisis and you are unable to meet your basic needs, you may qualify for temporary Emergency Assistance through the City of Ottawa.
Examples include assistance following:
Flood
Fire
Theft
Eviction
Health emergencies
More information:
City of Ottawa Emergency Assistance↗
🏠 Home Insurance
If you have home or tenant insurance:
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Many insurers will arrange emergency restoration services, including water extraction, drying equipment, and industrial dehumidifiers.
Take photos and videos of the damage before beginning cleanup, if it is safe to do so.
Keep receipts for any emergency purchases.
💨 Need a Dehumidifier?
If you need to borrow a dehumidifier:
Ask family, friends, neighbours, or local community groups.
Post in neighbourhood Facebook groups or local WhatsApp groups.
Call 2-1-1 or 3-1-1 to ask whether any community agencies or local programs may be able to assist.
🩺 Ottawa Public Health – Flood Recovery
Floodwater may contain bacteria, sewage, chemicals, and other contaminants.
Ottawa Public Health has guidance on:
Cleaning and disinfecting your home
Preventing mould
Food safety after flooding
Well water safety
Protecting your health during recovery
OPH Flood Recovery:
Ottawa Public Health – Flooding: Recovery↗
General flooding information:
Ottawa Public Health – Residential Flooding↗
⚡ Power Outages
Report outages to your electricity provider.
Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to preserve food.
Never use generators, barbecues, or propane heaters indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
❤️ Please check on one another
Older adults, people living alone, people with disabilities, newcomers, and families with young children may need extra support during flooding and prolonged power outages.
If you are safe and able, consider checking in on neighbours, friends, or relatives who may need assistance.