From April to July 2022, thousands of sandbags were used to protect homes and infrastructure throughout the Town of Fort Frances. As floodwaters recede and clean-up efforts begin, we remind the public that used sandbags are considered contaminated, as the sand within may contain harmful bacteria or other contaminants.
Residents can return used sandbags to the Public Works Yard at 900 Wright N, just off 5th Avenue, from 7:30AM-4:00PM, Monday to Friday.
Please be advised that the contaminates in used sandbags can be harmful to human health. It is important to keep the following in mind when handling used sandbags:
- Wear appropriate protection such as gloves and eye protection to reduce your risk of exposure to bacteria, chemicals or other hazards that could be present on or in used sandbags.
- Wash hands with soap and warm water after contacting floodwaters or handling items such as used sandbags.
- Do not reuse sand from used sandbags in areas where there may be human contact.
- Do not reuse the sand from used sandbags in children’s sandboxes, playgrounds or for landscaping purposes where there may be direct human contact.
- Never dispose of sand from used sandbags in a wetland, along waterways (shorelines) or other locations where it may have contact with people, wildlife, and the water.
We thank you for your patience and understanding. Please be assured that we will continue to monitor the situation and work to keep the public informed through 93.1 The Border and our Town of Fort Frances social media.
