February 19, 2004 The Honourable Elmer MacFadyen, minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Act has declared a Provincial state of emergency as of 13:01 p.m. today, February 19, 2004.This snow storm has caused severe ground drifting and whiteouts creating dangerous conditions on Island highways. The public should stay off the roads so that Emergency Services can respond to the storm when it is necessary to do so. The Minister also directed that residents should refrain from visiting coastal areas since the blizzard like conditions will result in storm surge conditions throughout various areas of the Province. The minister, during the state of emergency, may do everything necessary for the protection of property, the environment, and the health or safety of the public. “Public health and safety must be our number one concern”, stated Minister MacFadyen.Prince Edward Island’s joint emergency operation center has been fully activated.Residents of Prince Edward Island should continue listening to their local media outlets for further updates.Media Contact: Larry Avery