Article Display

Be Safe During Flood Recovery

  • Published
  • 20th Aerospace Medicine Squadron public health flight
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  A few organizations are offering post-flood cleanup volunteer opportunities. This is a great chance to strengthen community relations and help the community rebuild.

There are also some challenges and precautions to take to ensure each volunteer is as safe as possible and can return to work without injury.

Basic precautions:

1. Minimize risk of electrocution. Ensure the power is off if there are any question about electricity.  Stay away from downed power lines.

2. If the scent of natural gas or propane surfaces, leave immediately and call the utility company or fire department.

3. Avoid standing water and wear appropriate footwear. Floods may deposit glass and metal fragments.

Cleanup:

1. Hard surfaces should be cleaned with soap and water. Disinfection can be accomplished by adding 1 cup of bleach to 5 gallons of water.

2. Be sure to disinfect surfaces that touch food and places that food is stored (refrigerators).

3. Disinfect play areas for children.

4. Wash all clothes in hot soapy water.

5. Wear waterproof boots and gloves when cleaning an area that is potentially contaminated by sewage or human waste.

6. Have carpets steam cleaned.

7. Wear proper gloves when handling batteries; shock and battery acid may be present.

Remember that rubber boots, gloves, dust mask and splash-resistant goggles should be worn when cleaning up. If work gloves are available, it is ok to use them over the rubber gloves. It is important to wash your hands when taking breaks even when using rubber gloves. It is also important to make sure the water that is being consumed is safe to drink.

The job is not done when the project is finished for the day. Prevent others from being contaminated by washing the clothes worn while doing clean-up and taking a shower after arriving home. Keep clothes separate from the rest of the laundry when possible.
Those that feel ill are encouraged to make an appointment to see their Primary Care Provider immediately or get a referral for urgent care. Important numbers to have are South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control: 803-898-DHEC (3432), Shaw AFB Public Health: 803-895-6193, and the flood-related public information line: 1-866-246-0133.