August 17, 2016 Tips from Health Department for Flood-Affected Residents

- The Louisiana Department of Health advises all Louisiana residents to be aware of the dangers flood waters pose and to take all appropriate precautions.

Several storm-related deaths have already occurred in Louisiana. It is very important to exercise extreme caution around flood waters and when returning to a home that has been flooded.

Below are some useful guidelines and additional resources for all Louisianans regarding flooding, including information on where to get emergency updates.

What to Do if Your Community Experiences Flooding

Stay Out of Flood Water

Stay Tuned

Take Extra Care Regarding Wildlife

Vaccinate Against Diseases

After the Flood

Cleaning Up and Mold

If floodwater entered your home, you must clean and disinfect your home and any items that came into contact with floodwaters. Take precautions when doing so, especially if your home experienced a backup of sewage. Wear personal protective equipment. Porous items that absorbed flood waters, including drywall, carpets, upholstered furniture and curtains may need to be disposed of entirely or professionally cleaned.

Throw out any food that came into contact with flood waters, including canned goods.

For more information from the Department of Health on flood water safety or other emergency efforts, visit www.ldh.la.gov/emergency.

Additional resources are available from the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness here.

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 residents. To learn more about LDH, visit www.ldh.la.gov. For up-to-date health information, news and emergency updates, follow LDH's Twitter account and Facebook.

Surgeon General Ralph L. Abraham, M.D.

Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein

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