After flooding events, Fond du Lac County Health Department recommends that residents with private wells test their water to find out if their water is safe.
It is also important for residents to follow proper safety measures when re-entering and cleaning their home after a flood to avoid health risks.
Follow these tips to prepare before a flood:
- Stock an emergency supply kit.
- Include a supply of food and water, cell phone and charger, flashlight and batteries, can opener, first aid kit, extra cash and a change of clothes.
- Move electronics off the floor
- Consider adding flood insurance - visit the National Flood Insurance Program website to learn more.
Follow these tips during and after a flood:
- Do not drive through flood waters
- It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a car. When you encounter flood water, turn around, don't drown!
- Drain basements slowly
- Standing water should be emptied gradually - no more than 2-3 inches per day. If a basement is drained too quickly, the water pressure outside the walls will be greater than the water pressure inside, possibly causing floors and walls to crack.
- Shut off electrical power if you suspect damage to your home
- Use battery-powered lanterns to light homes rather than candles
- Use generators at least 20 feet from your home
- Generators create carbon monoxide in enclosed spaces
- Throw any refrigerated food if your power was out for four hours or more
- Frozen foods can be refrozen if they still have ice crystals. If you're unsure, it's best to toss just in case.
- Look out for mold
- Check your water supply