How Floodwaters Can Affect Your Health

Flooding in Florida

• Your home's elevation
• If there are creeks or rivers that frequently flood
• If your home is located in a low-lying area
• The flood map of your area (found online at FEMA's Map Service Center)

Health Risks and Other Dangers from Floodwaters

• Floodwaters can contain fecal bacteria from people and animals.
• Coming into contact with or ingesting organic waste could cause diarrhea, gastroenteritis, nausea and vomiting.

•  Chemicals from gas leaks, oil spills, pesticides and other toxic substances can contaminate floodwaters and cause chemical poisoning.
• Signs of chemical poisoning include confusion and disorientation, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, headaches, muscle twitches and skin rashes. 
• As mentioned, always avoid moving through floodwaters whenever possible to minimize the risk of coming into contact with toxic chemicals.

• Floodwaters can cause stress to animals, which may cause them to attack you due to strange and stressful conditions.
• Be careful around areas with high amounts of wildlife, such as alligators, snakes and floating fire ants.

• Flooding events can often compromise electrical systems and power lines, which could charge the water with a lethal amount of electric current. 
• Getting exposed to this charged water can put you at risk of electric shock, resulting to severe injury or even death. 
• Submerged electrical outlets can also put your life at risk.
• Report any fallen powerlines to the proper authorities and steer clear of them.
• Before entering any flood-damaged property, ensure that the main power is shut off to prevent electrical shock.

• Getting in contact with floodwaters while having wounds or sores can expose you to harmful pathogens, infections and diseases.
• If there is a need to wade through floodwaters, make sure that you are wearing proper personal protective equipment and that open wounds are properly and immediately treated. 

• Deep and murky floodwaters may be hiding sharp items such as broken glass, pieces of metal, nails and other dangerous debris which can result to infections and severe injuries.
• Avoid wading through floodwaters if possible. If there is a need to walk through floodwaters, wear protective equipment such as shoes and pants before getting in the water.

• Floodwaters can cause structural damage to buildings; without proper clearance, it's considered unsafe to enter flood-damaged homes or businesses.
• Some signs that indicate a structure is collapsing are shifting noises and unfamiliar sounds. Leave the building immediately.

Flood Safety

• Locate a safe shelter immediately.
• Do not get in contact with floodwaters or drive through them. You can be knocked down by six inches of moving water and a foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Stay away from bridges over fast-moving water.
• Depending on the type of flooding, you may be advised to (1) evacuate, (2) move to a higher floor or higher ground or (3) stay where you are located.

Get Life Back to Normal After a Flood with ServiceMaster Restore

• Contact us at (954) 969-5906 or connect with us online to schedule an appointment.
• Our Emergency Response Team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 
• Our office is located at 933 NW 31st Ave., Pompano Beach, Florida 33069.

• 20 years of experience
• Backed by 4,500 franchises around the world
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• Highly trained Technicians
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