New Campaign Reminds Residents to Keep Civic Address Signage Clear and Visible

Peterborough County, ON – When seconds count, your civic address could save your life. That’s the message behind “Love Your Number,” a new public awareness campaign launched by Peterborough County/City Paramedics, Peterborough County, and the Otonabee-South Monaghan Fire Department.

The “Love Your Number” campaign encourages property owners and residents, especially those in rural and seasonal areas, to ensure their 9-1-1 address signage is visible and well-maintained. When emergencies happen, clear signage helps first responders reach you as quickly as possible.

The campaign reminds residents that emergencies are unexpected, but good preparation can save precious minutes.
Key tips include:

1. Understand the importance of your civic/9-1-1 address. It directs emergency responders when time matters most.
2. Whether on your house or posted at the end of your driveway, keep your signage visible from both directions on the roadway and follow local numbering by-laws.
3. In rural areas, trim around your civic address sign regularly. Clear any tall grass, brush, or overhanging tree branches and bushes that might block it from both directions.
4. In urbanized areas, keep civic address signage illuminated and clear of decorations, plants, or other obstacles.
5. Make sure your driveway is clear and accessible year-round; trim branches, clear snow, and ensure emergency vehicles can reach your home safely.
6. Prepare when responders are en route: this can include turning on outdoor lights, unlocking doors, putting pets away, and having a list of medications ready.

This reminder is especially important for rural and seasonal residents, where long laneways, wooded lots, or seasonal cottages can make addresses harder to spot quickly.

Residents can learn more about their civic address signs and tips to keep them visible by visiting www.ptbocounty.ca.

Quotes:
“Your 9-1-1 number is more than just a sign at the end of your driveway or on your house, it’s how we find you when you need us most. A visible civic address sign can make all the difference in an emergency.”
Trish Bromfield, Chief, Peterborough County/City Paramedic

“Peterborough County is proud to support this collaborative effort. The simple step of maintaining a visible 9-1-1 address sign on your house or at the end of your driveway helps keep our communities safer and makes sure help gets to your door without delay. Every second counts! I encourage all residents to take a moment to periodically check their sign in all seasons.”
Bonnie Clark, Warden, Peterborough County

“Clear address signage helps firefighters, paramedics, and yes, even visitors and delivery drivers, find you fast. Please check your sign and show your number some love.”
Chuck Parsons, Fire Chief, Otonabee-South Monaghan Fire Department

For more information, please contact:
Tracie Bertrand
General Manager, Tourism and Communications
tbertrand@ptbocounty.ca
705-743-0380 ext. 2502