Health district: be safe around flood waters

    In light of the recent flooding in this area, the Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department is asking the public to remember these safety tips in dealing with flooding:
    Stay away from swiftly moving water. Even shallow water can be deadly.
    Avoid flood waters if able; if not, limit your contact as much as possible.
    Be alert to electrical and fire hazards. Report any fallen power lines to power company.
If in contact with flood waters, wash your hands frequently with clean water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Remember to disinfect toys that may have contacted the storm water as well.
    Clean up and prevent mold growth. Dry out buildings as quickly as possible. Clean wet objects and surfaces with bleach solution of 1 cup bleach per 5 gallons of water.
    Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe for drinking.
     In the event that a dwelling floods, here are steps to be taken to ensure food safety:
    Do not eat any food that may have touched flood water.
    Discard food not in waterproof containers.
    Discard any damaged cans that have swelling, leakage, punctures or extensive deep rusting.
    Sanitize pots, pans, dishes and undamaged all-metal cans (after removing label) with bleach solution of 1 tbsp bleach per 1 gallon of water.
     Children are at greater risk than adults from contaminants carried by flood water.  Since they dehydrate faster, they need to drink plenty of fluids.
    If the safety of water is in question, either use bottled water or bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least one minute, and let it cool before use. Children should be kept away from mud and make sure they don’t play with anything that may have become polluted by flood water or sludge.
     For additional information, visit: www.fema.gov/hazards/floods/ or Flood Safety Tips and Resources at weather.gov.