Jasper County Health Department Tips

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Jasper County Health Department
Division of Environmental Health
106 East Edwards
Newton, IL 62448
Phone: (618)783-5206 Fax (618)783-2339

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Flood Precautions

Flood water may contain fecal material from overflowing sewage systems and may contian various bacteria, viruses and other infectious organisms.   It is important that you use plastic or rubber gloves if you must be in contact with Flood water.   If open sores become exposed to contaminated water, disinfect the area with soap and clean water and if it becomes swollen, red or has any drainage seek medical attention immediately.   Also make sure that you are up to date on your tetanus booster.

Public and private water supplies may be contaminated after a flood.   Listen for public announcements regarding the safety of your public water supply.   If you use a private water well it should be pumped out, allowed to recharge naturally, disinfected and the water tested before drinking or being used for cooking.   The health department can assist you with directions on how to disinfect and sampling.

Do not use contaminated water to make ice, bruch your teeth or wash dishes.

Generally do not eat any food that has come in contact with Flood water.   If the safety of any food or beverage is questionable, follow this simple rule: When in doubt, throw it out.

A fully stocked freezed will keep food frozen two days if the door remains closed.   A half full freezer will keep food frozen for about one day.

When power goes off in the refrigerator, you can normally expect food inside to stay safely cold for four to six hours, depending on how warm your kitchen is.

Flooded indoor areas that can be washed down must be scrubbed with warm soapy water and then rinsed with a solution of 1/2 cup of laundry bleach to a gallon of water.

Wash all linens and clothing in hot water or have them dry cleaned.   Steam clean all carpeting.

The large amount of pooled water that remains after a flood provides an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, so remember to use a mosquito repellent when outdoors.   Drain standing water in old tires, flower pots, can bird baths, wading pools or any places that allow water to stand.

For more information about ticks, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and tularemia, log on to the Deparment's website.

For more information contact the environmental division of the Jasper County Health Department at 783-5206.

Linda Koester
Division of Environmental Health
Jasper County Health Department
106 East Edwards Street
Email: lkoester@jasperhealth.org