Flood water risk: Don't wade or play in the floods

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The Florida Department of Health wants to remind everyone that flood waters may be contaminated and wading in it poses a health risk. 

If possible, stay out of the flood water. They may contain fecal matter and associated bacteria and viruses. If you get caught in the flooding, take the following precautions: 

• If you have come in contact with flood waters, wash with soap and water as soon as possible.
• Avoid eating or drinking anything that has been contaminated with flood waters.
• Don't wade through the flood waters and if you do, immediately bath and put on clean clothes.
• Avoid contact with flood waters if you have open cuts or sores, and if any wounds become infected, seek medical attention. 
• If there is a backflow of sewage into your house, wear rubber boots and waterproof gloves during cleanup. 
• Remove and discard absorbent materials that may have come in contact with flood waters or sewage such as wall coverings, rugs, sheet rock. 
• Clean walls and surfaced floors with soap and water, then disinfect with a solution of 1/4 cup of bleach to one gallon of water.
• If plumbing is sluggish, conserve water, minimize use of toilet and washing machine. The less water you use, the less the septic tank processes.
• Do not have the septic tank pumped and do not have it repaired until the ground has dried.

For more information:

• Prepare for an emergency
• Disaster guide
• How to Disinfect