Staying Healthy around Standing Water in San Diego

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Staying safe when flooding and water damage occurs.

Staying Healthy Around Standing Water in San Diego:

Standing water of any kind in San Diego can be a powerful source of disease. Floods can be worse due to the amount of water involved. Even small puddles can pose a risk. 

Different kinds of debris can be found in floodwater such as dead animals, rotted plants, and sewage, to name a few. If you have water damage inside your home, watch for debris in the home as well to include rotted food and electrical problems. 

Viruses and bacteria can cause illnesses. To reduce your chances of catching something, SERVPRO of  Mission Valley East suggests:

• Washing dirty clothes and towels in hot water. Use bleach if possible
• Remember that you can shake hands with an infected person and get infected. 
• Do not allow children to play in the flood water
• Wash children’s hands before meals
• Disinfect toys before letting children play with them
• Use bleach or other disinfectants on hard surfaces
• Keep your hands washed

Cuts and rashes can become infected. Protect yourself and others in San Diego:

• Avoid floodwaters if you have an open rash or a cut
• Clean cuts or rashes. Cover them with a waterproof bandage
• Clean cuts with soap and clean water
• If a cut becomes red, swollen, or is oozing, get medical attention

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Links:

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/extreme-weather/floods-standingwater.html