A flood can be very distressing, especially when one loses many if not all of one’s possessions, especially those which cannot be replaced like old photographs or family heirlooms, but it can also affect one’s health negatively if not careful.
While most floods in the first-world do not contain as many health hazards as a flood in the middle of Asia, India or Africa might, there are still some things that one needs to be aware of regarding flooding and one’s health.
While flooding will leave marks and muddy deposits, the risk of sewage contamination is generally minimal. It is still preferable however to drink only bottled water or water from a reliable source such as a water cooler; either a bottled water cooler or a mains water cooler fitted with a triple action filter to ensure that your drinking water is pure.
The water that may still be in your home or on your grounds may not be that sanitary however and it is important that you wear protective clothing such as waterproof gloves and boots when cleaning. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after any contact with floodwater, sewage or any other contaminated items.
Do not allow your children to play in floodwater areas; wash any toys that may have been contaminated during the flood with clean hot water and disinfect them. If you are not sure that the toys are completely sanitary rather throw them away. Make sure that your children wash their hands with soap and fresh water frequently, and do not expose cuts or sores to floodwater.
Harmful bacteria in the garden and play areas should be destroyed by soil and sunlight and should be fine after a week or two. Wash down and disinfect waterlogged garden equipment and allow it to dry before using again.
Remove all furnishing and fittings that are damaged beyond repair immediately and disinfect all hard surfaces with cleaning products.
When it comes to your drinking water, your local water company will advise you of the safety of its water supply and will provide an alternative supply if a water treatment works has flooded. Water from private supplies should be boiled until the water is tested and shown to be safe. Alternatively, use only water from a water cooler with a good filter as your drinking water; it will definitely be toxin-free, chilled and as a bonus it will also taste great.
