Don't go in the Water, Avoid Flooded Areas
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To some the rising flood water may seem like something they need to dive into whether as youthful children or daring individuals looking for a thrill. Maybe an individual is desperate to clear a path to drain water. Whatever the case may be the Blaine County Health Department wants to remind people the dangers of flood water.
Blaine County Nurse, Valerie Beck and Blaine County Health Department, Deb Anderson stated that, "It had been reported that kids were seen playing in the flood water and as we have done in previous flood years, we have to remind people of the dangers of flood waters and the potential for illness." In helping get the word out about safety around flood waters they shared some information with the Journal to pass along to our readers.
Often times children like to venture into flooded areas especially those nearby. Many of these areas seem calm and inviting but in reality, they are a hot bed for potential disaster. The depth of the flooded are certainly unknown and what is below is anyone's guess. Anyone venturing into standing flooded water has the potential for stepping into a hole or brushing up against something that could cut them. Standing newly flooded area contains animal waste, garbage, carcasses and many forms of harmful bacteria. The risk of getting sick even a little to the point of becoming ill enough to require hospitalization has greatly increased by spending any amount of time in these waters.
In areas where a creek has exceeded its bank, or a river has crested are even more dangerous. While the water on top may look like its barely moving in places the undercurrent and fast moving objects in the water itself can prove deadly. Trying to walk across a flooded creek and falling down could result in being carried downstream uncontrollably creating a very dangerous scene. When water has reached a point where it starts coming into houses and living areas it can create all kinds of issues. The residents need to evacuate and have the area dried out and cleaned professionally to ensure safety before returning to the home. Any inconvenience this may cause is far better than an unwanted stay at the local Emergency Room.
Some notes of caution from the Blaine County Health Department state that floodwaters may contained:
• Downed Power Lines
• Human and Livestock Waste
• Household, medical, and industrial hazardous waste (chemical, biological, and radiological)
• Coal ash waste that can contain carcinogenic compounds such as arsenic, chromium and mercury)
• Other contaminates that can lead to illness
• Physical objects such as lumber, vehicles and various types of debris
• Wild or stray animals such as rodents and snakes
Exposure to any of these elements and conditions often result in wound infections, skin rash, gastrointestinal illness, tetanus, and all though not common, Leptospirosis. If you or someone you know has ventured into any flooded areas and show any signs of illness, injury or discomfort don't wait. Go immediately to the Emergency Room and get checked out.
It shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that it is important to protect yourself from exposure to floodwater regardless of the source of contamination. The CDC states that the best way to protect yourself is to stay out of the water. If you come in contact with floodwater, be sure to wash the area with soap and clean water as soon as possible. If you don't have soap or water, use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer. Another step is to take care of wounds and seek medical attention if necessary. Be sure to wash all clothes contaminated with flood or sewage water in hot water and detergent before reusing them. If you must enter floodwater, wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles. Be vigilant while flooding conditions remain and make sure any residence that experience damage in the flood is safe before returning. Before we know it, July will be here, and everyone will be complaining how hot it is.
