MDHHS provides advice on flood safety

LANSING, Michigan (WILX) - If it rains, it rains, and it certainly has been raining for a few days.

There seems to be an interruption in the rain on Sunday as no showers are expected for the whole day until Monday.

The storms did not come quietly, however, leaving Michigan with flooding and wind damage. So bad that Governor Whitmer declared a state of emergency over the Wayne County floods.

Following Governor Gretchen Whitmer's announcement of the state of emergency in response to floods and flood warnings, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is offering guidance to Michiganers on how to stay safe and healthy during the floods. .

"Residents affected by flooding are encouraged to monitor health and safety warnings issued by local media and local health authorities, as flooding can create dangerous conditions," said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS medical director and assistant health director. "Floods and stagnant water can be dangerous, leaving you vulnerable to infectious diseases, chemical hazards, and other injuries. MDHHS offers tips to keep Michigan residents healthy during floods. "

If a flood occurs near you, MDHHS recommends the following measures to protect you and your family:

During the high tide

• Stay away from flooding. Floods move faster than it appears and can carry debris that could injure you. Additionally, there is a risk of electric shock from fallen and exposed power lines. Children should never play near floods, gullies, overpasses, or streams.
• Avoid driving in floods as vehicles can easily be washed away. If you are stranded and surrounded by flood waters, wait for rescue workers instead of trying to walk or drive through flood waters.
• Floods can be hazardous to health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), floods can contain dangerous bacteria and other pollutants, including sewage. Floods can contaminate groundwater and drinking water and transport wastewater from the sewer system or septic tank into terraces and cellars.
  If flooding occurs in your area, avoid contact with flooded areas and wash yourself if contact occurs. Listen to public announcements or contact your local health department to find out if tap water is safe to use.
  MDHHS encourages Michigan residents who source their drinking water from wells to have their well water tested after a flood. For more information, see this document or call the MDHHS drinking water helpline at 844-934-1315.
  

After the flood has receded

• Be careful when entering a flooded house or building. If you can, go home during the day so you don't have to use a light. Use flashlights and battery operated lanterns instead of candles, gas lanterns, or torches. Do not turn the device on or off, or use electrical tools or devices while in the water. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the area immediately and notify the gas company, police, or fire department. Do not return until you are told it is safe to do so.
• If your home has been flooded and has been closed for several days , the CDC's cleaning recommendations include washing and sanitizing the flooded areas of the home. The MDHHS gives recommendations for cleaning visible mold .
• Take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones while cleaning up after a flood. When preparing to clean up after a flood, make sure you have the correct safety equipment, including hard hats, goggles, N95 masks, waterproof boots and steel toes, ear plugs if you work with noisy equipment, and protective boots and gloves if one Wastewater pollution is present. Suspicion or when using detergents such as bleach. Team up while cleaning, in case you have to move heavy objects, rest and drink water as needed.
• Never use generators, pressure washers, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or coal appliances in your home, basement, garage, or even outside near an open window, door, or vent. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas from these sources that can cause sudden illness and death.
• If you have cuts or open wounds that have been exposed to flooding, CDC wound care involves washing the wound with soap and water and applying an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. See a doctor right away if you are injured or sick.
• Pay attention to your surroundings . Avoid power lines, debris, insects, and wild or stray animals.
• Discard any food that may have come into contact with flooding or rainwater; perishable food that has not been properly refrigerated due to power outages; and foods with an unusual smell, color, or texture. Dangerous foods can make you sick, even if they look, smell, and taste normal. When in doubt, put it away.
• Mosquitoes, which can transmit West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, breed in stagnant water. Flooding can increase the mosquito population and the risk of infection . Regularly using EPA-approved mosquito repellants outdoors can keep you safe from mosquitos.
• Take care of your emotional health . During and after a disaster, it is natural to experience strong and varied emotions. Coping with these feelings and getting help when you need it will help you, your family, and your community recover from a disaster. People in crisis, including thoughts of suicide, are encouraged to contact the Disaster Helpline or National Aid for Child Prevention Helpline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 800-985-5990.

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