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N.B. officials caution people to treat contaminated floodwaters as hazardous

Click to play video: 'Damage becoming clear as New Brunswick flood waters recede'
Damage becoming clear as New Brunswick flood waters recede
WATCH: The water has receded in some New Brunswick regions, meaning the damage is becoming more clear. Todd Veinotte explains – May 9, 2018

People in flood-stricken parts of New Brunswick are starting to see the unprecedented levels recede, but are being warned to treat the floodwaters with caution.

The Emergency Measures Organization says the Saint John River is expected to continue dropping over the next few days, but that private wells and produce may be compromised.

READ MORE: Drones used to gather data as flood ravaged New Brunswick waits for waters to recede

It says water should not be consumed from private wells until they have been tested since raw sewage has leaked into the floodwaters.

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Four parks have also been closed in Saint John due to possible contamination from the floodwaters, which remained above flood level Tuesday.

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Health officials say floodwaters could contain harmful bacteria, like salmonella or E. coli, and people cleaning contaminated areas should wear protective clothing.

READ MORE: Residents help N.B. business fight off floodwater

The organization also says produce, including popular fiddleheads, exposed to floodwater may not be safe to eat and should be avoided.

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