Peoria City/County Health Department supports America’s PrepareAthon! on April 30 for this first-time national event sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Individuals, families, schools, and businesses throughout the nation will participate in activities to be prepared for disasters. Local disasters include the threat of flooding in our region and bring with it related health risks.

Peoria City/County Health Department urges individuals to follow safety tips related to possible local spring flooding. Public health and safety are among the first concerns after flooding or heavy rains. Flood water can carry bacteria and other contaminants that could cause disease and illness. Local water wells that provide high-quality drinking water can become flooded. Sewer and septic systems can overflow. Follow safety tips during this type of event to protect against disease:

These basic precautions can help to prevent disease:

 Minimize skin contact with sewer water, especially cuts and sores. Keep cuts clean by washing with soap and clean water and covering with a waterproof bandage.

• Do not allow children to play in areas or play with toys contaminated by sewage overflows or flood waters.
• Do not eat or drink anything exposed to sewer water.
• Do not use water from flooded water wells.  An alternate source of potable water should be obtained such as bottled water. Once flood waters recede, the well should be tested to make sure the water is safe to drink. Contact your local health department to obtain a test kit.
• Keep contaminated objects, water and hands away from your mouth, eyes and nose.
• Wash hands frequently, especially after bathroom use, before eating and immediately following contact with sewer water or contaminated objects or surfaces.

Take the following precautions to prevent injury:

• Turn off main power switches if necessary. Air out and wipe dry all appliances and electrical outlets exposed to water before using.
• If you have fuel oil or gas systems, be sure tanks are secure and all lines are free from breaks.
• Wear rubber boots, gloves and an N95 or HEPA respirator mask during removal and cleanup efforts.
• Open windows if possible to ventilate and dry the area. Fans can be used to help with drying.

 The following general cleaning guidelines may help prevent the transmission of disease and reduce property loss:

•  Discard any contaminated objects that cannot be thoroughly washed or laundered.
• Wash contaminated surfaces and objects with warm, soapy water and disinfect with a bleach and water solution made of no more than 1 cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water. For objects that would be damaged by bleach, use a home or laundry disinfectant.
• Make sure to read and follow label instructions. Do not use ammonia. Do not mix ammonia and bleach; the vapors are hazardous.
• Scrub and wash all objects in the affected area of your home, including clothes, exposed to flood waters. Use warm, not hot, tap water with soap.

The Peoria City/County Health Department is urging you to join the PrepareAthon and be ready for local disasters. For additional information to protect yourself and your family, visit the Peoria City/County Health Department website at www.pcchd.org.