The Municipality of French River is launching a new initiative to improve emergency response to farmland that doesn’t have a municipal address.
The Farm 911 project assigns a unique number to entrances of farmland that don’t have a municipal address, helping emergency responders identify these properties more quickly, and improving response times during critical situations.
The project, also known as "The Emily Project", is inspired by a tragic accident involving young Emily Trudeau on a family farm in Ontario. Emily's unfortunate passing was a result of her injuries on a farm property that didn’t have a municipal address, making it challenging for emergency responders to locate her quickly. To learn more about the initiative, visit Farm 911 - The Emily Project.
Farm owners have to enroll in the program, and the Municipality along with Police, Fire and Paramedics are strongly encouraging it.
Those who enroll will receive a red and white address sign installed by the Municipality prominently at the existing field access point, making it easier for emergency services to locate the property quickly. The fee for the sign and installation is $75.00 + hst = $84.75.
Applying for an Entrance Permit and Civic Address?
An Entrance Permit application needs to be submitted to qualify for a civic address. Please contact the Public Works Department to apply for an Entrance Permit and/or Civic Address (911 Number).
How to Apply for a Farm 911 Sign:
Please complete the Farm 911 Sign Application Form, providing all required information then submit to the Municipal Office in person, by mail or by email. The application will be reviewed by municipal staff, and applicants will be contacted upon completion of the review, or if additional information is required. The following steps will follow:
- Staff will review your request and determine if your property meets the guidelines for a Farm 911 Sign.
- The number assigned will be added to the municipal street index and shared with Fire & Emergency Services.
- The municipality is responsible for the installation of their new sign.
- The number assigned to the entrance shall only be used to reference the location of the field entrance to the property (such as for emergency services) and shall not be used as a mailing address for the property.
- The owner and/or tenant is responsible to ensure signage remains visible and is maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I currently have a green 911 sign on my vacant lot that would be more applicable for the Farm 911 Program?
The property owner is required to submit an application for a Farm 911 sign and it will be registered under this program instead of being considered as a civic address, fees may apply.
What if I want to build on the vacant lot in the future?
Should development occur, the property owner is required to apply for an Entrance Permit and a new green 911 sign/civic address, fees may apply.
Does the Farm 911 sign count as the property address?
No, Farm 911 signs are to assist in emergencies and do not constitute a civic address for mail delivery purposes nor does it guarantee it being an approved Entrance Permit. Municipal GIS and Emergency Services are the only agencies circulated on Farm 911 Signs requests and registration.