With heavy rain and melting snow causing localized flooding across the region, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is reminding residents to take extra precautions to protect food and drinking water and reduce the risk of illness.
Emergencies such as floods and power outages can significantly affect water quality, food safety, and living conditions. The health unit says proper food and water safety before, during, and after flooding events is critical, particularly for residents who rely on private wells and those who experience extended power disruptions.
Private Wells at Higher Risk During Flooding
The health unit warns that private wells are especially vulnerable to contamination during floods, and that any well can become unsafe when floodwater is present. If floodwater reaches or covers a wellhead, residents are advised to assume the water is unsafe for drinking.
Power outages can compound the risk by preventing well pumps and water treatment systems from functioning properly. Once power is restored, residents should flush their water lines for at least five minutes and ensure treatment devices, such as ultraviolet (UV) systems, are operating correctly.
Until well water has been properly tested and confirmed safe, residents are urged to use commercially bottled water. If bottled water is unavailable, water should be boiled for at least one minute before being used for drinking, cooking, or cleaning.
Private well owners can have their water tested free of charge, with sample bottles available at many Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit offices.
Only Safe Water Should Be Used for Daily Essentials
The health unit says only safe drinking water should be used for:
- Making ice, juice, coffee, tea, and infant formula
- Cooking and washing fruits and vegetables
- Brushing teeth and washing hands
- Dishwashing
For added dishwashing safety, residents can add a capful of bleach to a sink full of clear water when rinsing dishes.
Municipal drinking water systems, meanwhile, remain safe. The health unit notes that municipal water is treated and continuously monitored, even during flooding and power outages, and residents will be notified immediately if there is any concern with water quality.
Flood Water Can Make Food Unsafe
Flood water often carries silt, sewage, oil, and chemicals, which can contaminate food and make it unsafe to consume. The health unit stresses that any food that comes into contact with floodwater should be thrown out, even if the packaging appears dry. Water can seep into containers and compromise food safety.
Power outages also pose serious risks, particularly for refrigerated and frozen foods. All food should be carefully checked before being used after a power loss.
Perishable items such as meat, poultry, dairy products, fish, and eggs must be discarded if they have been stored above 4°C (40°F) for more than two hours, as bacteria can multiply quickly at warmer temperatures.
What to Know About Freezers During Power Outages
According to the health unit:
- A full chest freezer can keep food frozen for up to 48 hours without power
- A half‑full freezer will typically keep food frozen for about 24 hours
- If food has thawed, it should be thrown out
Residents are reminded not to taste food to determine whether it is safe.
When in Doubt, Throw It Out
As flood recovery continues in parts of Simcoe Muskoka, the health unit emphasizes one key message when it comes to food and water safety: if in doubt, throw it out.
Taking precautionary steps now, officials say, can help prevent foodborne illness and protect household health during and after flooding events.
For more information on water testing, food safety, and flood recovery guidance, residents are encouraged to visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit website or contact their local health unit office.
