HAY RIVER (July 13, 2015) – Staff at the South Mackenzie Correctional Centre had the opportunity to practice their contingency plans during a mock evacuation drill last week in Hay River.

Staff put full evacuation plans to the test when advised of the mock drill starting at 9:00 a.m. last Wednesday and inmates, staff and materials were moved into position for transportation within record time. This included loading vehicles with appropriate security and medical requirements for all inmates, including medications and personal effects. Along with appropriate security gear for safety, current facility records and case files, staff needed to muster water and food to sustain inmates and staff for a full 48-hour period. 

“I am very pleased to see the Corrections Service testing their emergency procedures,” said Minister of Justice David Ramsay. “We made commitments during discussions on the recent report from the Office of the Auditor General. We committed to being vigilant on emergency safety. The timing of this drill is excellent considering fire activity in the South Slave area. The success of this exercise confirms our confidence in our staff’s ability to protect the safety of inmates in our care, their work colleagues and the public.”

After the exercise, senior management met to discuss the operation and identify any areas for improvement.  All involved were able to agree the procedures established were sound and effective. 

The Warden of the South Mackenzie Corrections Centre is a member of the Regional Emergency Response Committee and works closely with the team for emergency planning.  The Department of Justice is committed to public safety and the safety of everyone in any corrections facility.

Media inquiries:

Sue Glowach
Senior Communications Advisor
Department of Justice
Tel: 867-920-3130
Email: sue_glowach@gov.nt.ca