Keeping Safe in Flood Areas

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Parts of our country it seems have been affected by severe storms and floods this year.  The Phelps county and surrounding areas has had their share for sure.  Water from rivers and creeks that have jumped their banks is clearly not a healthy environment.  Once flood water escapes it normal channels it can pick up any combination of pollutants from the ground it runs over along with structures it runs through.

These water can contain harmful bacteria, dangerous chemicals, and insecticides to name a few.  Flood water is categorized as a category 3 and is the same category as sewage water.

Keep in mind that exposure to flood waters should be kept to a minimum.  Individuals who are extremely young, elderly, or who have a compromised immune system are especially at risk.  While some contact with flood water is inevitable, it should be done with care and kept to a emergency need only.

If flooding occurs in your area here are some helpful tips provided from the CDC, at;  https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/flood-safety/index.html

• Avoid driving through flooded areas and standing water.
• Do not drink flood water, or use it to wash dishes, brush teeth, or wash/prepare food.  Drink clean, safe water.
• If you evacuated, return to your home only after local authorities have said it is safe to do so.
• Listen to water advisory from local authorities to find out if your water is safe for drinking and bathing.
• Throw away any food and bottled water that came into contact with floodwater.

If flooding has invaded your home or business, please call the clean up team at your SERVPRO of Rolla - (573)368-5555 - today!