Flood Precautions
$ Flood water may contain
fecal material from overflowing sewage
systems and may contain various bacteria,
viruses and other infectious organisms. It
is important that you use plastic or rubber
gloves if you must be in contact with Flood
water. If open sores become exposed to
contaminated water, disinfect the area with
soap and clean water and if it becomes
swollen, red or has any drainage seek
medical attention immediately. Also make
sure that you are up to date on your tetanus
booster.
$ Public and private water
supplies may be contaminated after a flood.
Listen for public announcements regarding
the safety of your public water supply. If
you use a private water well it should be
pumped out, allowed to recharge naturally,
disinfected and the water tested before
drinking or being used for cooking. The
health department can assist you with
directions on how to disinfect and
sampling.
$ Do not use contaminated
water to make ice, brush your teeth or wash
dishes.
$ Generally do not eat any
food that has come in contact with Flood
water. If the safety of any food or
beverage is questionable, follow this simple
rule: When in doubt, throw it out.
$ A fully stocked freezer
will keep food frozen two days if the door
remains closed. A half full freezer will
keep food frozen for about one day.
$ When power goes off in the
refrigerator, you can normally expect food
inside to stay safely cold for four to six
hours, depending on how warm your kitchen
is.
$ Flooded indoor areas that
can be washed down must be scrubbed with
warm soapy water and then rinse with a
solution of ½ cup of laundry bleach to a
gallon of water.
$ Wash all linens and
clothing in hot water or have them dry
cleaned. Steam clean all carpeting.
$ The large amount of pooled
water that remains after a flood provides an
ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, so
remember to use a mosquito repellent when
outdoors. Drain standing water in old
tires, flower pots, cans, bird baths, wading
pools or any places that allow water to
stand.
For any questions
regarding precautions or protection, contact
the Environmental Health Division at the
Jasper County Health Department at
618-783-5206.