March 13, 2012 Don't Get Hurt After The Storms

BATON ROUGE, Mar 13, 2012 - Louisiana health officials are urging people returning to residences damaged by Monday's floods to be aware of health and safety dangers that remain close to home.

"A tremendous number of accidents occur in the first few days after people return home", said State Health Officer, Dr. Jimmy Guidry. "We urge people to watch out for downed electrical lines and damaged wiring in their home, propane or other gas leaks, flooded home septic systems, and to take precautions when clearing debris."

The Louisiana Department of Health Office of Public Health offers the following safety reminders in post-flooding conditions:

Home Utilities: Gas, Septic and Electric Safety:

• If you are returning to a storm-damaged house, be particularly careful. Before entering the building, check for structural damage to be sure there is no danger of collapse. Turn off any outside gas lines at meter or tank and let the house air for a few minutes.
• If the electricity is off in the neighborhood, make sure your electrical power is turned off at the main breaker or fuse box.
• Don't turn on any lights, appliances, or gas systems until they've been tested.
• If the house has been flooded, electrical wires and appliances will have to be cleaned and thoroughly dried before they can be safely used again.
• If surface water is present, or the home plumbing system is not working, do not try to use the septic system.
• Carbon monoxide is odorless and can be deadly. Use a charcoal or gas grill only in an open, well-ventilated area, never inside the house.
• Do not connect an external generator to your home's electrical system. Connect appliances directly to the generator with properly sized polarized extension cords. Be sure the generator is properly grounded. Before refueling, let the engine cool for at least two minutes to prevent fires. Store extra fuel in a safe, dry area.

Debris Removal and Household Safety:

• Before returning to a flooded area, you should have had a tetanus shot within the past 10 years. If you're injured during the cleanup, you should immediately check with your doctor for guidance.
• Avoid debris and flooded areas, which can camouflage hazards. Watch out for loose or dangling power lines.
• Exercise particular caution in using power tools or tackling large debris, which can shift suddenly.
• Wear sturdy shoes or boots and protective clothing such as heavy pants, long sleeves and gloves when cleaning up debris. Stinging insects such as bees and wasps can become very aggressive after a storm.
• Falls are common; use safety equipment and get trained help with large or difficult jobs. Don't take chances and don't drink alcoholic beverages before or during the use of power tools.
• Handling and cleaning contaminated materials can result in dangerous exposure to mold, bacteria, viruses and other contaminants. Individuals with respiratory allergies, or other respiratory illnesses, should not handle or disturb materials that have visible mold growth.
• Do not leave children unattended. Do not allow them to play in or explore damaged or flooded areas. Keep chemicals used for cleaning and disinfecting, fuel for generators, and pest-control substances out of reach of children.
• Be aware that animals are more likely to bite and be aggressive after a storm. Many wild animals may have been forced out of their normal surroundings by the storm.

The Louisiana Department of Health strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state citizens. To learn more about LDH, visit http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov. For up-to-date health information, news and emergency updates, follow LDH's blog, Twitter account and Facebook.

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