Floodwater: Protect Yourself After a Disaster

"Floodwater is dangerous and can cause diseases, chemical hazards, and injuries. Protect yourself and your loved ones by following these steps.

Don't Drive in Flooded Areas:

Always follow warnings about flooded roads. Don't drive in flooded areas; vehicles can't protect you from floodwaters.

Stay Out of Floodwater:

Floodwaters can harm your health. Protect yourself from any contamination.

Prevent Injuries:

Floodwater may have sharp objects like glass or metal that can cause injury and infection.

Prevent Infection of Open Wounds & Rashes:

Open wounds and rashes can get infected by floodwater. Cover them with a waterproof bandage to prevent infection.

Protect Yourself from Diarrheal Diseases:

Floodwater may have sewage. Eating or drinking anything contaminated by it can cause diseases like E. coli or Salmonella.

Protect Yourself from Animal & Insect Bites:

Floodwater can move animals, insects, and reptiles. Stay alert and avoid contact.

Be Aware of Chemicals in Floodwater:

Floods can move chemical containers from their storage spots, don't attempt to move them.

Avoid Electrical Hazards:

After a disaster, watch out for electrical hazards at home and outside."

CDC Floodwater Safety: https://www.cdc.gov/floods/safety/floodwater-after-a-disaster-or-emergency-safety.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/floodsafety.html

NYSDOH Flooding Emergency: https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/emergency/flood/

Ready.Gov Floods: https://www.ready.gov/floods

(Shared from a recent Albany County email update.)