Southeast Calgary Dairy Queen Ordered to Close Over Mice Infestation
A Dairy Queen restaurant located in southeast Calgary has been mandated to cease operations by local health authorities following the discovery of a severe mice infestation during a routine inspection. The closure order was issued to address immediate public health risks associated with the rodent presence.
Health Inspection Reveals Critical Violations
Inspectors from Alberta Health Services conducted a scheduled visit to the establishment and found multiple signs of an active mice infestation throughout the premises. Evidence included droppings, nesting materials, and gnaw marks in food storage and preparation areas, indicating a significant rodent problem that compromised sanitary conditions.
The inspection report detailed violations that posed a direct threat to food safety, prompting the immediate closure order. Health officials emphasized that such infestations can lead to contamination of food products and surfaces, potentially spreading diseases to customers.
Immediate Closure and Required Remediation
The restaurant has been instructed to remain closed until all pest control measures are completed and the facility passes a follow-up inspection. Management must hire licensed pest control professionals to eradicate the mice and implement preventive measures to avoid future occurrences.
Additionally, the establishment is required to conduct a thorough deep cleaning of all affected areas, dispose of any contaminated food items, and repair structural damages that may have facilitated the infestation. Only after these steps are verified by health inspectors will the Dairy Queen be permitted to reopen for business.
Public Health Implications and Community Response
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges restaurants face in maintaining stringent hygiene standards, especially in older buildings or areas prone to pest issues. Local residents have expressed concern over the closure, with some reporting previous observations of pest activity in the vicinity.
Health authorities are urging other food service operators in the region to review their pest control protocols and ensure compliance with sanitation regulations to prevent similar situations. The case serves as a reminder of the critical role regular inspections play in safeguarding public health within the food industry.
The Dairy Queen franchise has issued a statement acknowledging the closure and committing to full cooperation with health officials to resolve the issue promptly. They have apologized to customers for any inconvenience and assured the public that customer safety remains their top priority.
