LITTLE ROCK -- The Arkansas Department of Health urges Arkansans to protect their health and take the appropriate steps if their home or onsite wastewater system becomes flooded. Flood water and sewer overflows can contain bacteria, viruses and other organisms that cause disease. Homes and other buildings can quickly develop mold if flooding occurs. In addition, flooded onsite wastewater systems, also known as septic systems, must be cleaned and inspected.
These basic precautions and cleaning tips for your home can help to keep you safe and healthy:
• Avoid skin contact with flood water, and keep cuts and sores clean and covered.
• Do not allow children to play in flood water.
• Do not eat or drink anything exposed to flood water.
• Do not drink water from a well until it has been disinfected and tested.
• Wash hands frequently.
Get rid of any contaminated objects that cannot be thoroughly cleaned. Things that are wet for two or more days, including carpets and rugs, often have mold growing on them, even if you can't see the mold. Mold can make the air in your home unhealthy and affect people with asthma, allergies or other breathing problems.
Wash contaminated surfaces and objects with warm, soapy water and disinfect with a bleach and water solution made of one cup of bleach per one gallon of water. Home or laundry disinfectant can be used for objects that would be damaged by bleach.
Do not use ammonia. Ammonia vapors mixed with bleach vapors create a poisonous gas.
The removal and cleanup of sewer or flood water is essential. Take the following precautions to prevent injury:
• Turn off main power switches. Air out and wipe dry all appliances and electrical outlets exposed to water before they are used again.
• If you have fuel oil or gas systems, be sure tanks are secure and lines are free from breaks.
• During cleanup of sewer and flood water, wear rubber boots, gloves and an N-95 respirator mask. This protective gear can be found at most hardware stores.
• Open windows if possible to air out and dry the area. Fans can help speed up drying.
Most onsite wastewater systems are below ground and usually are not damaged by flooding; however, septic tanks and pump chambers can fill with soil and must be cleaned. Follow these guidelines:
• Do not use the system while it is covered with water.
• If your system contains electric components, switch off breakers or disconnect power to the system.
• Once the flood waters recede, do not use the system until the water in the soil absorption field is lower than the water level around the house.
• Have your tank repaired or cleaned by a licensed specialist. The tanks may contain dangerous gases and germs.
For more information, please visit the Flood Water Safety page on the ADH website at www.healthy.arkansas.gov. You can also contact your local health unit for information about well water testing and septic system inspection.
General News on 12/30/2015