Cleaning Up (Part 1-Water)

Tuesday September 29, 2009

When the massive flooding in Georgia recedes there will be a huge mess left to clean up. It will be important for all those impacted to take precautions to safe guard the health of themselves and their families during this clean up. You must assume that the floodwater was contaminated. As much as is possible, you should try to avoid direct contact with the flood water during cleaning by wearing rubber boots and gloves. If there is direct skin exposure with the contaminated water, frequent and thorough hand washing with soap and clean water is essential.

Of course don't consume any food or water which you even suspect has been contaminated. During the recent flooding raw sewage was washed into the Chattahoochee River when a sewer treatment plant was flooded. Several sewage pumping stations were also closed down during the flooding. Contact your local water system to determine if your water supply is safe to drink. If you have any doubts, continue to boil the water. (The water should be brought to a rolling boil for 1 minute and then allowed to cool.)

Any possessions which have been in flood waters will have to be thoroughly cleaned. You can mix up a cleaning solution of 5 gallons of water and 1 cup of bleach and use this to disinfect items. If you have children, make sure their toys are completely cleaned since young children often stick toys in their mouths. Any belongings which cannot be washed or cleaned will have to be discarded.

Additional evacuation information available at www.wineandchocolateplan.com