Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston has announced that residents affected by the wildfires in the province will not have to pay fees for testing their well-water. In a recent press briefing, Houston informed reporters that testing kits will be made available for pickup starting Tuesday. Residents can collect these kits from the fire station located at 2050 Hammonds Plains Rd., as well as from the Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change offices in Bridgewater and Yarmouth.
Houston emphasized that individuals should only obtain a well testing kit if they reside in areas directly impacted by the wildfires and rely on well water. Before conducting the test, he advised people to flush and disinfect their wells thoroughly.
While waiting for their wells to be tested, Houston recommended that residents consume bottled water and use it for activities such as brushing their teeth and providing for their pets.
Regarding the wildfires, the fire that began on May 28 near Upper Tantallon, just outside Halifax, has now been contained after destroying 150 homes. However, a significant fire in Shelburne County, situated in southwest Nova Scotia, is still classified as out of control. Fire officials have mentioned that recent rainfall has assisted firefighting crews in their efforts to combat the blaze.
Furthermore, the provincial government is exploring various housing options, including modular homes, to provide accommodation for those displaced by the wildfires.
