Marshall County public health officials are urging residents to remember to consider health and safety when dealing with local flooding. "We understand that residents want to salvage as much as they can from flooded basements and homes," said Marshall County Public Health Nurse, Pat Thompson. "Personal safety, however, must be their number one priority."

Marshall County health officials remind residents to follow a few basic steps to avoid illness and injury. "There are many health risks associated with flooding," said Pat Thompson. "Improper waste disposal, cleanliness of drinking water, food safety, power outages, electrical hazards, clean up measures and others issues all pose potential risks. The key is to exercise caution, especially during and after a flood."

Marshall County Public Health reminds residents to:

• Avoid contact with flood waters as much as possible. Do not wade, swim, or enter flood waters due to the unknown hazards that likely exist. Immediately wash hands and bare skin that come in contact with flood water with soap and hot water.
• Be aware that when power goes out, refrigerated food may go bad after two hours, and frozen food may spoil after 24 hours.
• If in a flooded area, use only clean water (bottled, boiled, or treated) for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene such as brushing teeth.
• Be extra careful during clean up efforts. Keep children and pets out of the affected area, discard any items that can not be completely washed and disinfected, and watch where you step.
• Only use gas-powered generators/power washers outside in a well ventilated area during clean up.

For more information, please visit www.idph.state.ia.us and click on Floods in the Topics of Interest section. Residents may also call 641-754-6353 with specific questions about flood issues.

Contact

Pat Thompson, R.N., 641-754-6353

pthompson@marshmed.com