Centers For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC) Issued Some Flood Safety Advice

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued some recommendations on how to keep yourself, your family, and your home safe during hurricane season.

When a Flood Warning or Watch is Issued

  • Gather emergency supplies.
  • Listen to your local radio or television station for updates.
  • Have immunization records handy (or know the year of your last tetanus shot).
    • Store immunization records in a waterproof container.
  • Prepare an emergency food and water supply. Store at least 1 gallon of water per day for each person and each pet. Store at least a 3-day supply.
  • Bring in outdoor possessions (lawn furniture, grills, trash cans) or tie them down securely.
  • If evacuation appears necessary: turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.
  • Leave areas subject to flooding: low spots, canyons, washes, etc. (Remember: avoid driving through flooded areas and standing water.)

After Flooding Occurs

  • Avoid driving through flooded areas and standing water. As little as six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
  • 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.
    • During a water advisory, use only bottled, boiled, or treated water for drinking, cooking, etc.
  • When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food and bottled water that comes/may have come into contact with floodwater.
  • Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Use generators at least 20 feet from any doors, windows, or vents. If you use a pressure washer, be sure to keep the engine outdoors and 20 feet from windows, doors, or vents as well.

If your home has been flooded, make sure to clean it properly when you get home. Remove and dispose of drywall and insulation that has been polluted by floodwater or sewage and cannot be washed or disinfected with a bleach solution.

Visit the CDC’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/disasters to learn more about keeping yourself and your loved ones safe before, during, and after a natural disaster or severe weather.

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