Minimize health risks in an emergency.
Food safety during a power outage |
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Power outages can create problems with food safety. Food that is spoiled or unsafe, may or may not look or taste bad, but may make you sick if you eat it.
Note: The freezer will be the coldest in the back, so that is where meat should go. Canned goods will keep for long periods of time, for as long as two years, so be prepared. You can purchase milk, meat, vegetables, and fruits in cans. These do not require cooking and can be eaten cold if no heat is available. Don't forget to have a non-electric can opener. |
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Safe bottle feeding for infants |
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Expressed breast milk:
Artificial baby milk (formula):
When stored in the refrigerator:
Use of frozen milk stored in the freezer:
Learn more about infant and child feeding in emergencies. |
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What food should be discarded |
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If the food in the freezer has ice crystals on it and is not above 4º C you may refreeze the item. A food thermometer is needed to be sure of the temperature. If you do not have a thermometer, you may have to make a decision based on how cold the food feels. Food from the fridge should feel cold to touch. If it is room temperature, it should be thrown out or put into your green bin. The following chart can help you decide. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has additional information on food safety in emergencies. |
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Safe drinking water during a power outage |
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During a power outage, both municipal and private well systems may be affected. Safe water is required for drinking, bathing, brushing teeth, washing food (such as fruits and vegetables), cooking and cleaning. On average, each person requires five gallons (23 litres) of water per day. The following points highlight some safe water choices:
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Treating tap water when a Boil Water Advisory has been issued |
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Private well water |
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After a flood, your well or cistern water may be contaminated with bacteria and chemicals that can make you sick. Precautions should be taken when dealing with private well water during/after a flood. |
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Mould prevention |
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Flooded buildings become damp and create a perfect environment for bacteria and mould growth. Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation provides details on flood clean up and mould prevention. |
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Preventing infection |
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Many communicable diseases are reportable to Region of Waterloo Public Health. These are called Diseases of Public Health Significance. For some diseases, medication or immunization to prevent further illness is recommended. Quarantine or isolation may also be recommended to prevent others from becoming ill. Public Health works with local health care providers to ensure clients receive important information, medication and/or immunization if necessary.
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Flu and pandemic planning | |
In the event of an influenza pandemic, the Region of Waterloo has a plan for ensuring important information is communicated to the community and local health care providers. The Community Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Plan aims to reduce the number of people infected, minimize the level of illness, decrease the number of deaths and reduce economic and social disruption. |
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Overdose Alerting | |
The OMARS (Overdose Monitoring, Alert and Response System) committee of the Waterloo Region Integrated Drugs Strategy aims to provide local and timely information about overdose to the community including alerts about new, tainted or toxic substances in Waterloo Region. OMARS will work to ensure the public is alerted when:
To receive overdose alerts, subscribe here, and for a list of past alerts click here. |
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