Protect Your Drinking Water Supply After a Hurricane

The water systems in several parishes have been severely compromised because of heavy rains associated with Hurricane Melissa and contamination by sewage, dead animals and debris. Even if the water looks clean, it may not be safe.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) encourages citizens to take the following precautions to keep their drinking water safe:

1. Purify Water

Boil water for at least one minute before use. After boiling, allow water to cool and store in a clean, covered container.

If boiling is not possible, add two drops of household bleach (use a dropper to measure) to one litre of water, stir, and let it sit for 30 minutes before consuming.

2. Use Stored Water Carefully

Keep containers sealed, clean, and away from floodwater. Pour water instead of dipping into containers.

3. Only Purchase from Approved Vendors and Purify Donated Water

All entities supplying potable water for a cost should be licensed to do so. Donated water may not always be safe, so follow the purification process before consuming.

4. Never Drink or Use Floodwater to Cook or Bathe

Floodwater can carry germs, sewage, and chemicals. Use it only for flushing toilets.

Immediately seek medical attention if anyone in the home develops symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, or stomach cramps after drinking untreated water. It is vital to treat, store, and use water carefully after a storm or flood until officials confirm that the supply is safe.
For additional information contact:

Ministry of Health and Wellness
10-16 Grenada Way, Kingston 5
Tel: 876-633-8172/876-633-7771
Email: info@moh.gov.jm
Website: www.moh.gov.jm
Facebook/Instagram/X: @themohwgovjm

Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management
2-4 Haining Road, Kingston 5
Tel: 876-906-9674
Email: odepm@cwjamaica
Website: www.odpem.org.jm
Facebook: ODPEM.JA
Instagram/X:@odpem