Spring thaw could put your drinking water at risk—how to stay safe

 Flood water and water ponding around wells can affect the safety of your drinking water.

Thawing of snow and ice combined with spring rains may cause localized flooding on some properties. Flood water and water ponding around wells can affect the safety of your drinking water.

The South East Health Unit  is advising residents whose wells are directly affected by flooding to boil their water for one minute at a rolling boil before drinking the water, or use an alternate safe source until you test your water and confirm that it is safe to drink.
A few tips to keep in mind if your property is prone to flooding:

monitor weather and take warnings seriously
monitor your local conservation authority website and alerts for localized flooding risks
ensure drainage ditches, etc. around your home are clear and can function during periods of heavy rain
label the shut off valves and the direction to turn off the gas, water, power, etc. If you must leave your home due to rising flood waters, turn off the power, gas, etc.
maintain your home to keep water out
move items likely to be affected by a flood water to higher areas where possible
ensure chemicals, cleaners; gas cans, etc. are stored in such a manner as not to contaminate flood water
ensure you have a supply of fuel for generators and pumps in the event of power outage. Store fuel in a manner so as not to contaminate flood water have an emergency kit stocked; be sure to include important documents, cash, safe drinking water, food and medication