Flood Safety Tips for First Responders

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of a storm, it’s important to stay safe if you plan to participate in first responder activities.

After a storm in Stillwater, OK, floodwaters may contain hazardous materials such as raw sewage or chemicals. Individuals choosing to participate in flood response actions need to be aware of the potential health risks and take proper precautions. If you are a first responder after a flood event, here are four tips to help keep you safe from injury and illness.

1. Obtain recommended immunizations before exposure. If you have not received a tetanus shot within the last 10 years, the Center for Disease Control recommends getting a booster before beginning your flood recovery efforts. Additionally, if you have the potential to be exposed to human bodily fluids while caring for victims or patients, the Hepatitis B vaccine is also strongly encouraged.

2. Wear protective gear and clothing. Gloves should be worn at all times when dealing with the aftermath of a flood. Ideally, gloves should be both cut resistant and waterproof. Eye goggles can protect the eyes from infection or injury. If floodwater is still present, wearing waterproof coveralls over your clothes can provide additional protection.

3. Follow hygiene and sanitation procedures. Frequent handwashing is essential for a first responder due to the potential exposure to toxic materials. If clean water and soap are not readily available, hand sanitizer with alcohol can be used as a substitute.

4. Remain aware of hidden dangers. After a heavy flood, the ground may become unstable due to oversaturation of water, leading to unanticipated sinkholes or slides. Additionally, some areas are higher risk due to pesticides or other chemical-related runoff. Mold can rapidly set in after a flood event, so be aware of potential mold exposure. In any case, professional restoration specialists can help mitigate the risks of mold and lingering bacterial or chemical contamination.

In the aftermath of a storm, it’s important to stay safe if you plan to participate in first responder activities. By following a few safety tips like the ones listed above, you can help make an impact on the cleanup efforts without jeopardizing your health. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROstillwaterguthrie.com/.