The Baltimore City Health Department said Friday that it has closed five food establishments over the past 10 days for operating without water service, due in part to frozen or damaged pipes caused by recent freezing temperatures.
The Health Department reminded food service establishments that, according to state regulations, they must have hot and cold running water to remain open.
"Having both hot and cold running water is essential for any business that is preparing or serving food to the public," said Baltimore City Health Commissioner Leana Wen. "In order to prevent food-borne illness, people need water to wash their hands and clean dishes and surfaces."
"We are reminding everyone who works in the food service industry across Baltimore — whether they are a restaurant chef, server, or general kitchen help, or even if they work in a corner food market that sells food — that water is a critical component of their business," Wen said.
Health Department spokesman Michael Schwartzberg said on Friday that T & M Carryout in the 1700 block of Pennsylvania Ave. was closed due to no water and general unsanitary conditions.
"In order to reopen, the facility must correct all violations on the notice and have a licensed plumber restore water to facility," said Michael Schwartzberg. "The facility must remain closed until they pass a re-inspection."
Alemonia Pizza in the 5200 block of Reisterstown Road was closed Feb. 23 due to no water at facility, no permit, and other issues, Schwartzberg said. He said the establishment has not reopened due to lack of permit.
Schwartzberg said three closed facilities have since reopened. Dash Convenience Mart and Valley Pizza, both in the 5100 block of Park Heights Ave., had been closed on Feb. 26 due to having no water. Oakley Food Market in the 2800 block of Oakley Ave. reopened after being shut down on Feb. 17 because of no water on premise, leaking pipes, standing water, no working toilet facilities and no heat to the facility.
Schwartzberg said the establishments were not fined but were levied a $150 re-inspection fee.
The Health Department urged the public to call 311 to report a facility that does not appear to have running water.
Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake said that Baltimore County residents experiencing water line damage should contact Baltimore City, which is responsible for water service for both jurisdictions.
Officials said that Baltimore City officials are dispatching to Baltimore County's Department of Public Works a list of service requests locations there and said that county officials will follow up on those requests while city officials follow up on local requests.