The dangers of a flood are always the obvious ones. Floodwaters
are liable to contain toxic chemicals and will inevitably spawn
dangerous bacteria. Only if you have your own supply of fresh
water for drinking and washing can you keep any cuts or open
sores from infection from floodwater-borne microorganisms.
Follow the below precautions for you and your family's safety.
If you need to walk through floodwater only do so wearing boots
or waders high enough to protect you from the water. Wash your
hands with soap and clean, safe water completely and often. If
available, use antibacterial soap, especially when preparing
food or eating. Children who suck their thumb or those too young
to know the danger are at risk of hand to mouth infection.
Drink no water except bottled water until the water supply has
been deemed safe by local officials. Even following the water
supply being declared safe, water lines to your home must be
disinfected.
Structures that have been flooded can be dangerous. Ceilings can
cave in, floors give way and the entire building can collapse
with no warning. Have your home inspected by a professional and
certified safe for you and your family before moving back in.
If you live in a flood-prone area, keep a waterproof flood
survival kit in your home, with the following items: Bottled
water, ready-to-eat foods, drinks that don't require
refrigeration, first aid equipment, extra medications, rubber
boots, heavy shoes, dry clothing, thermal blankets, flashlights,
extra batteries, a battery-operated radio, plastic bags for
trash and smaller sealable bags for keeping things dry or just
keeping things together and a small set of vitall tools
including: a sharp pocket knife, razor-blade knife,
adjustable-wrenches, assorted screwdrivers, adjustable pliers
and channel-locks, rope, twine and bailing wire, duct tape,
electrical tape.
Standing water next to the outside walls of the house could
indicate the structure or foundation's integrity has been
compromised it is unsafe to enter. You must have the house
inspected by professionals and certified safe for you and your
family.
Walk around the outside of the house, looking for loose power
lines and signs of gas leaks. You may not be able to smell a
broken gas line, but you can probably hear the hiss of escaping
gas. If you see, hear or smell anything suspect, call the
utility company or emergency services.
Do not light matches, use lighters, smoke or use candles, gas
lanterns, camp stoves, or any other open flame around the house
until it has been inspected and declared free of any flammable
fumes.
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