Residents set to enjoy traditional camping excursions over Easter should plan ahead of time to keep themselves and their environment safe and healthy.

The Department of Environmental Health (DEH) issues the following reminders:

FOOD SAFETY 

• Keep raw foods separate from cooked or ready-to-eat foods.
• Wash hands between handling raw and cooked or ready to eat foods.
• Protect food from contamination by keeping it covered until use.
• Ensure meats, poultry, fish and shellfish are thoroughly cooked before eating.
• Keep hot foods hot (above 63°C/145°F) and cold foods cold (below 5°C/41°F).
• Use a sanitizer to thoroughly clean all work surfaces, knives, chopping boards and other food utensils.
• Reheat food thoroughly.
• Wash hands after bathroom visits.

GARBAGE DISPOSAL / LITTER CONTROL

Improper garbage disposal and littering are liable to penalties under the Litter Law and the Public Health Law, including a fine of up to $500. Residents should, therefore, avoid such practises. All solid waste products should be properly disposed. To assist with process, DEH will provide commercial containers throughout the island at the following locations:

• Barkers – West Bay
• Car Park West of Jefferson Public Beach – West bay
• Seven Mile Public Beach – West Bay
• Smith’s Cove – George Town
• South Sound Public Boat Ramp – George Town
• Bodden Town Public Beach – Bodden Town
• Colliers Public Beach – East End
• Queens Highway – East End
• Kaibo Public Beach – North Side

* In locations where no containers have been provided, residents should bag their trash and dispose of it at home. *

SANITATION

Human waste should be disposed of in a sanitary manner. Campers should rent a portable toilet or camp at locations with bathroom facilities. Improper disposal of human waste is an offence under the Public Health Law 2002 revision, part III, punishable by fines (up to $1000) and six months imprisonment.

Officials for the Ministry of District Administration, Works, Lands, and Agriculture (DAWLA) and the DEH are asking the public to do their part in protecting the environment.  Additionally, the Ministry of DAWLA and DEH wishes everyone an enjoyable, safe and incident free and HAPPY EASTER time.

For more information on food safety, garbage disposal and sanitation, contact the DEH at 949-6696.