Following a flood warning from Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources due to rising water levels in the Pembroke district, the Renfrew County District Health Unit is urging residents to take precautions to protect their health and safety.
The RCDHU says flooding can pose risks to drinking water, septic systems and personal well-being as water levels continue to rise across the region.
Residents who rely on private wells are being advised to take extra care, as floodwater and standing water can contaminate drinking supplies. The health unit recommends boiling water at a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking, food preparation or brushing teeth. Alternatively, residents can use bottled water or another safe potable source. Well water should be tested for bacteria once floodwaters recede.
Flooding can also disrupt septic systems by saturating the ground and preventing proper function. Officials advise limiting water use — including flushing toilets, doing laundry and showering — if systems are affected. Pumping a septic tank while the surrounding ground remains saturated is discouraged, as high groundwater levels can cause empty tanks to shift or float, potentially damaging the system.
The health unit is also warning about broader safety risks linked to floodwaters, which may be contaminated with sewage and other harmful substances. Residents are urged to keep children and pets away from floodwater and to wash or sanitize hands after any contact.
Items such as furniture, clothing and building materials exposed to flooding may be contaminated and could develop mould. While some hard surfaces can be cleaned and disinfected, others may need to be discarded.
Officials stress the importance of avoiding areas where electrical systems have been affected, due to the risk of electrocution, and to wait for clearance from proper authorities before entering.
As a precaution, residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to clear drainage systems, label utility shut-off valves and know how to turn off gas, water and electricity. If evacuation becomes necessary, utilities should be turned off if it is safe to do so, and valuables should be moved to higher ground.
Emergency preparedness is also key, with residents advised to keep a kit stocked with essential documents, cash, safe drinking water, food and medications.
Drivers are being reminded not to travel through floodwaters. Even shallow, fast-moving water can be dangerous, with as little as 15 centimetres capable of knocking over an adult and deeper water able to carry away vehicles.
Authorities recommend monitoring local flood updates and river conditions regularly as the situation develops.
(Steve Berard)
