Flooding
Current flood information is available from the BC Emergency Program
Flood Preparation
Community Flood Preparedness Tool Kit – Provincial Emergency Preparedness Program package for communities. Includes templates to use in developing fact sheets, public service announcements, web site materials or articles to help residents in risk areas prepare for the possibility of flooding. A PowerPoint presentation, emergency preparedness guide links and downloadable photos are also included.
Health Related Information
As the water recedes it is important to keep in mind the following health and safety considerations:
- Food Safety after extended power shut off
- Frozen foods should be discarded if the electricity has been off and foods have been exposed to temperatures above 4°C (or 40°F) for more than two hours. These foods are not safe to re-freeze;
- Keep freezer and fridge doors closed as much as possible; Placing blankets over your chest freezer will help insulate and keep food frozen longer. Be sure to avoid covering electrical outlets; Keeping frozen containers of water in your freezer will help preserve food;
- Remember - if in doubt, throw it out!
- More Food Safety Facts are available from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency
- Drinking Water Safety
Flooding may result in the contamination of water supplies including surface and shallow groundwater sources.
- For residents who are on organized water systems, questions about the quality of the drinking water should be directed to the local water supplier (e.g., utility, municipality, etc.).
- For residents who are on smaller systems/individual wells, and suspect that their water supply has been affected or contaminated by a flood, an alternative source of drinking water should be used until the water source can be assessed or tested.
- For advice on having a water source assessed or tested, please contact your local Public Health Centre or refer to Approved Drinking Water Testing Laboratories; UBC Dpt of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine; Approved by the BC Provincial Health Officer
Sampling Procedures for private water supply systems affected by flooding- Turbidity concerns
- Procedures for boiling drinking water for consumption
- Sewer and septic concerns (applicable info from the US Environmental Protection Agency)
- Cleanup Following a Flood: BC HealthFile #20
- Dealing with Hazardous Materials (electricity, propane etc.) after a flood (Canadian Red Cross)
- Feeling Normal in Tough Times Mental Health resources for times of crisis
Still have health related questions or concerns?
BC Resources:
National/International Resources:
