The North Central District Health Department would like to remind us of safety tips for those affected by recent storms and flooding:
- If you walk in swiftly flowing water, you risk drowning—regardless of your ability to swim. Quickly moving shallow water can be deadly. Avoid wading in standing water, which also may contain glass or metal fragments and other contaminants.
- Do not drive in flooded areas. Vehicles do not provide adequate protection from flood waters. Cars can be swept away in water.
- Be alert to electrical and fire hazards. Stay clear of fallen power lines. Call the power company to report them. During clean-up, if electrical circuits or equipment have gotten wet or are in or near water, turn off the electricity at the circuit breaker or fuse on the service panel. Don’t turn the power back on until it has been inspected and found to be safe by a certified electrician.
- Remember to wash your hands frequently with clean water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
- Clean up and prevent mold growth. Dry out the building as quickly as possible. Clean wet objects and surfaces with a bleach solution of 1 cup bleach per 5 gallons of water.
- If you receive a puncture wound or a wound contaminated with soil, sewer or storm water, treat the wound with soap and clean water and apply an antibiotic ointment. Contact your medical provider to find out if a tetanus shot is needed.
- Because of potential contaminates in flood water, exposure to the water can cause wounds infections, skin rash, GI issues, and tetanus. Contact your medical provider if any of these conditions occur.
The best way to keep yourself safe and healthy throughout our wet weather is to stay out of the water. Do not enter flood water in your vehicle or by foot.
