After

Remember that flood waters are unsanitary. Take the following precautions:

1. Find out from the media and authorities whether the water is safe to drink.
    

2. Do not consume or go near water that may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Be aware that water may also conduct electricity from underground or downed power lines.
    

3. Stay away from moving water.
    

4. Try to avoid driving in areas where the floodwaters have receded because roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a motor vehicle.
    

5. Avoid downed power lines, and report them to the power company. Stay out of homes or buildings that are still surrounded by floodwaters.
    

6. Do not return to your home or building unless emergency personnel tell you it is safe.
    

7. Repair damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Any damaged sewage systems present serious health risks.
    

8. Make sure that you clean and disinfect all wet articles. For instance, mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and hazardous chemicals.

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