The Ho Municipal Environmental Health Officer, Rogar Adjei, has called on residents within the municipality to take sanitation seriously, warning that poor waste disposal practices could lead to flooding, disease outbreaks, and other public health challenges.

Speaking in the wake of recent flooding incidents witnessed in Accra, Mr Adjei expressed concern that similar conditions could occur in Ho if residents fail to change their environmental habits. He noted that blocked drains, particularly around areas such as Donorkordzi, continue to contribute to recurring flooding anytime it rains.

According to him, indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste and other refuse into drains is a major factor worsening the situation. He observed that after rainfall events, plastics and other debris are often seen scattered along roadsides and in waterways, creating blockages that prevent proper drainage.

“This is not appealing to the municipality,” he said, stressing that such practices increase the risk of stagnant water, which in turn creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes and raises the likelihood of cholera and typhoid outbreaks.

Mr Adjei further cautioned against the discharge of effluents into open drains, describing it as a serious public health risk. He urged residents to seek proper guidance from the Environmental Health Office whenever they are uncertain about waste disposal methods.

He also advised the public to be cautious about their sources of drinking water, encouraging the use of treated pipe-borne water. He warned that consuming untreated water from streams and other unsafe sources could lead to contamination and waterborne diseases.

On food safety, the officer encouraged households to prioritize eating freshly prepared and well-heated meals, especially during the rainy season. He noted that food hygiene is critical to preventing stomach illnesses, diarrhea, and related complications.

“Let’s eat from places we trust and ensure food is properly prepared and kept hot,” he advised, adding that prevention remains better than treatment, particularly during periods when health facilities may be overwhelmed.

Rogar Adjei reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to environmental health enforcement but emphasized that lasting solutions depend on collective responsibility from residents.