Floods are the most common natural hazard in Canada. They can occur at any time of the year and are most often caused by heavy rainfall, rapid melting of thick snow, ice jams, or, more rarely, the failure of a natural or man-made dam.
Septic systems and wells
Flooding and heavy runoff can damage wells and septic systems, and create health risks.
Septic systems
Flooding of a private sewage system can be dangerous for homeowners. Sewage can back up into the home and may contaminate drinking water.
Wells
- A well can become contaminated during a flood.
- If surface water enters the top of a well, the well water becomes contaminated and unsafe to drink.
- Therefore, do not drink the water until it has been tested.
After a flood
- Ensure your drinking water is safe. Have your water tested before you use it.
- Important precautions need to be taken if a well may be contaminated.
- In the short-term, bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before it is safe to use for
- drinking
- brushing teeth
- making infant formula, juices, and ice
- using it for washing foods such as fruit and vegetables that will be eaten raw
- Once flood water recedes, wells should be disinfected.
- Well water can be used without boiling once the well has been disinfected and two (2) consecutive, satisfactory laboratory test results are received for the well water.