The Safety Checklist – Deep Water Can Be Hazardous
June 28, 2019
There are so many misconceptions surrounding deep water after a storm or flash flood. Most people feel that such water, in the middle of the road, cannot be that deep. It just can’t. Well, that is entirely wrong. In many cases, the water is far deeper than most of us expect. It poses a serious risk, making you vulnerable to injury, chemical hazards, and infectious diseases. You can protect yourself and your family by avoiding floodwater. In the event of storm damage, find a local restoration company offering 24-hour water damage restoration or storm recovery services near you.
Never Drive Through Floodwaters
The most important thing to remember about floodwater or deep water of any kind is to never drive through a flooded area. Most likely, your town will put up signs to avoid dangerous water. You’ll be told to turn around. These warnings are there for a reason. Floodwater can pose a serious risk of drowning for everyone in the vehicle – even those fully capable of swimming. The swiftly moving water, just below the surface, can be extremely deadly. Even shallow standing water is a danger to small children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
Do Not Walk Through Floodwater
While it’s always recommended not to drive through floodwater, some people find themselves walking through the water instead. You’re even less safe while on foot. No one knows what lies just under the surface after a flood. Floodwater may contain:
- Downed power lines
- Human and animal waste
- Household, medical, and industrial hazardous waste
- Illness-causing contaminants
- Physical debris, including vehicles, metal shards, broken glass, and splintered wood.
- Wild or stray animals, including rats, snakes, and worse.
Any exposure to floodwater on bare skin or via ingestion or inhalation can lead to serious health concerns. These include, but are not limited to:
- Serious infections
- Skin Rashes
- Gastrointestinal illness
- Tetanus
- Physical injuries
- Diarrheal diseases
Protecting Yourself from Floodwater
While completely avoiding floodwater and deep water altogether is a good idea, it may not be enough at times. Here are a few expert techniques to protect yourself should you come in contact with floodwater.
- Wash any area that comes in contact with floodwater using soap and clean water immediately. If you do not have access to either, then use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer for the time being.
- Immediately treat wounds and seek medical attention to avoid the risk of irritation or infection.
- Wash any clothing that is contaminated using hot water and detergent before reusing.
If you absolutely must enter floodwater after a storm, always remember to wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, a respirator, and goggles. These items are easily disposed of afterward if necessary.
Before you enter any deep water following a flash flood or severe storm, contact Restoration 1 of Central Maryland. We offer 24-hour water damage restoration and cleanup services for these types of situations.
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