Flood Water Safety: How to Protect Yourself During and After a Natural Disaster

Flooding can change everything in a matter of hours. Whether a hurricane, heavy storm or rising river brings water to your doorstep, the danger doesn't end when the rain stops. As flood waters in the street and surrounding areas start to recede, standing water can still cause injuries and spread disease. That's why flood water safety matters just as much during cleanup as it does during the storm itself. 

Flood water safety tips: How to protect yourself during and after a natural disaster

These natural disaster safety tips will help you and your family stay protected from the moment flooding begins through the days that follow.

Have a medical concern but can't get to a doctor's office? You can talk with an Ochsner doctor from home through Ochsner Anywhere Care virtual visits. It's a convenient way to get trusted care when travel is difficult or roads are still flooded.

Drive safely and avoid standing water

Avoid driving through areas with standing water. It can be hard to tell how deep the water is, and there's always a chance you could lose control of your vehicle or get stuck. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and a foot of water can sweep most cars away.

The dangers of driving through flood water are real and often underestimated. Hidden hazards like downed power lines, debris or washed-out roads can lurk just beneath the surface. The safest choice is simple: Turn around, don't drown.

Use safe, clean water only

Flood water should not be ingested. It can make you sick. Only use clean, safe water for drinking, cooking and brushing your teeth.

Keep an eye on local news. If officials issue a boil water advisory, boil your water for at least one minute before drinking it or using it to prepare food. A boil water advisory means your tap water may contain harmful bacteria or contaminants, so this step protects you and your family until the water is declared safe again.

Watch out for electrical equipment

Be careful when entering flooded areas or touching electrical equipment if the ground is wet. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination.

If water has been present anywhere near electrical circuits or electrical equipment, turn off the power at the main breaker or fuse on the service panel. If you can't reach the breaker without stepping in water, call an electrician or your utility company for help. Never enter a flooded room if you can see or hear sparking, buzzing or crackling.

Clean up carefully

Anything that flood water touched could carry bacteria. If water entered your home or car, be careful with the products you use to clean up. Wear gloves, boots and protective clothing to limit contact with contaminated surfaces.

Flood cleanup safety also means knowing what to throw away. If you have any doubts about food or bottled water that was in contact with flood water, it's best to be safe and throw it out. The same goes for items that can't be fully cleaned and dried, such as soaked mattresses, carpeting and stuffed toys. Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours, so dry out your home as quickly as you safely can.

Watch for flood water diseases and injuries

Standing water dangers go beyond the obvious. Flood water often contains sewage, chemicals, sharp debris and bacteria that can lead to infection. Common flood water diseases and injuries include:

• Skin infections from cuts or scrapes exposed to contaminated water
• Stomach illness from swallowing or touching dirty water
• Tetanus risk from stepping on nails or sharp objects
• Mosquito-borne illness as standing water becomes a breeding ground

If you get a cut, clean it right away with soap and clean water, then cover it. Watch for redness, swelling, warmth or fever, which can signal an infection that needs medical attention.

Recovering from a flood takes time, and your health should stay at the top of the list. By keeping these flood water safety tips in mind, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from preventable injuries and illness.

If you have any questions or medical concerns, don't wait. Reach out to your doctor or schedule an Ochsner Anywhere Care virtual visit to get the care you need, wherever you are.