The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is urging residents to take precautions following the Town of Gravenhurst’s declaration of a state of emergency on December 1, after a substantial snowstorm in the Muskoka Region. The storm led to the closure of Highway 11 and widespread power outages, impacting many residents.
The health unit reminds residents to stay vigilant and follow safety recommendations such as staying home and avoiding travel where advised. Residents in affected areas can visit the Town of Gravenhurst and District of Muskoka websites to check for information and local updates about warming centres and road closures.
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Food and water safety during and after a power failure
Food and water safety are of critical importance during and after a power failure. Foods that can spoil, such as meat, poultry, dairy, fish and eggs that have been stored above 4°C (40°F) for more than two hours must be thrown out due to the increased risk of the growth of organisms that can cause foodborne illness.
Foods stored in a chest freezer that is full should remain safely frozen for up to 48 hours after a power outage. If your freezer is half full, foods inside should remain safely frozen for 24 hours after a power outage. Any foods that are thawed should be thrown out.
A power outage will normally cause the water pump of private wells to fail, so an alternate source of safe water, such as commercially bottled water should be used. If bottled water is not available, boiled water may be used. Boiling water for one minute will kill most types of disease-causing organisms that may be present. If the water is cloudy, filter it through clean cloths, or allow it to settle and then draw off the clear water for boiling.
Safe drinking water should always be used for:
- Making ice; juice, coffee, tea and infant formula
- Note: Ready-to-serve infant formula is the safest option for formula-fed babies if water safety is a concern.
- For cooking and washing fruits and vegetables.
- Washing hands and brushing teeth.
- Dishwashing – for extra safety, pour a capful of bleach into a sink full of clear water for rinsing dishes.
Check in for Safety
During an emergency, check in on neighbours, friends and family who may be at risk during extreme cold weather. Make sure they are warm and safe and have the supplies required. Frequently check on children who are playing outside and ensure they remain properly dressed. Remember, to notify friends and family of your location if you are needing to travel to a different place.
For more information about emergency preparedness, visit smdhu.org or call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 weekdays between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
