June 27 , 2008 | |
Gov. Blagojevich urges residents to stay safe and healthy after floodingFood, water and cleaning recommendations offered to help prevent illness and injurySPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today urged residents in and around flooded areas to take precautions to help prevent disease, in order to stay safe and healthy. “It is important that people in these areas protect themselves from disease often carried by flood waters, by staying out of the water as much as possible,” said Gov. Blagojevich. “The State is working to assist people in this disastrous time and encourage them to be vigilant as the waters recede.” Flood waters and sewer overflows can contain bacteria, fecal material, viruses, and other organisms that may cause disease. The following information can help protect communities from illness and injury:
Food and Water Safety Use only bottled or disinfected water for drinking, cooking, tooth brushing and bathing until you are sure the water supply is safe. There are several communities in Illinois that are currently under boil orders, because the water quality in the system is potentially compromised by flooding or equipment damage. The current recommendation is to bring water to a rolling boil for five minutes. Discard food exposed to contaminated waters. If refrigerators or freezers have taken in water, discard food stored, there. If no water entered these appliances, but power was lost long enough for foods to thaw, discard all partially thawed foods unless prepared immediately. Discard milk, cheeses and other foods prone to spoilage. Completely thawed meats and vegetables should be discarded without question. Discard all bulging or leaking canned food and any food stored in jars. Intact cans without dents can be cleaned with a bleach solution, before use. Removal and cleanup of sewer or flood water is essential. It is important to take the following precautions to prevent injury:
The following cleaning guidelines may help prevent the transmission of disease and reduce property loss:
For more information, call your local health department. |
Illinois Department
of Public Health 535 West Jefferson Street Springfield, Illinois 62761 Phone 217-782-4977 Fax 217-782-3987 TTY 800-547-0466 Questions or Comments |