LA CROSSE, Wis. ― Flooding has become widespread in Minnesota, Wisconsin and throughout the Midwest. With rivers continuing to rise, the potential for more flooding raises concerns for safety and health issues.
Mayo Clinic Health System offers some important guidelines to help residents stay safe and healthy during the cleanup process.
Floodwater safety
Floodwater can carry pathogens that cause gastrointestinal illnesses, such as diarrhea, cholera, typhoid fever and hepatitis A. These diseases can spread through contaminated drinking water and food.
Floodwater also can contain hazardous chemicals from agricultural runoff, industrial waste or household chemicals, posing risks of poisoning or chemical burns. Stagnant water from flooding can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of diseases.
Flood cleanup activities also pose risks of cuts, puncture wounds and strains. Clean all open wounds and cuts with soap and clean water and apply an antibiotic ointment. If you experience symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, swelling or fever, or if a wound becomes red, swollen or starts to drain, consult with a healthcare professional or your local medical facility.
Children’s safety
To protect children, do not allow them to play in or near floodwater or areas that have been recently flooded. Additionally:
Ensure children wash their hands frequently, especially before eating.
Disinfect toys that may have been contaminated using a solution of2 ounces of bleach in 1 gallon of water.
Discard any soft toys that may have been contaminated, as young children may put these items in their mouths.
Food safety
Maintaining safe food supplies during and after a flood is crucial. Here are some tips:
Keep refrigerators at 41 F or lower. If power is lost, an unopened refrigerator will keep food cool for four to six hours.
Keep frozen food from thawing. An unopened freezer will keep food frozen for one day if half full, and up to two days if full.
Boil water for one minute or use water-purifying tablets if tap water is unsafe.
Destroy canned goods that are rusted, pitted, swollen, leaking, or badly dented at rims and seals.
Rigid plastic containers without a screw-top are safe if not defective, not submerged in water, and free from soil, rust or dents.
Discard foods in nonwaterproofed packaging if they’ve encountered floodwater.
When in doubt, throw it out!
Mold prevention
Mold can pose significant health risks, particularly for those sensitive to it. To protect yourself:
Clean and dry buildings quickly (within 24-48 hours) using fans and opening doors and windows.
Clean moldy surfaces with a mixture of 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water, and wear gloves to protect your hands.
Wear a mask to protect your lungs when dealing with mold.
Pace yourself, get support
The emotional impact of flooding can be severe, leading to stress, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Displacement from homes and loss of property can exacerbate these issues. Be mindful of physical and emotional exhaustion. Set priorities, pace your work and avoid working alone. Seek support from family, friends or professionals, and consider professional help if needed.
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