DOH-Palm Beach Urges Residents and Visitors to Avoid Floodwaters

Palm Beach, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County (DOH-Palm Beach) urges residents and visitors to avoid floodwaters, as heavy rainfall and flooding associated with storms can pose health and safety risks.

Don’t Drive in Flooded Areas

Floodwater can pose a drowning risk for everyone — regardless of how well they swim.

• Swiftly moving shallow water can be deadly, and even shallow standing water can be dangerous for small children.
• Always follow warnings about flooded roads.
• Don’t drive in flooded areas — cars or other vehicles won’t protect you from floodwaters.
• Vehicles can be swept away or might stall in moving water.

Floodwaters Can Be Contaminated

Avoid skin contact with floodwaters, especially if you have open cuts or wounds. Waters can contain harmful bacteria and viruses.

• Do not wade through standing water. If you do, wash thoroughly and put on clean clothes.
• If an open cut or wound comes into contact with floodwaters, wash the area well with soap and clean water to prevent infection. If the area develops redness, swelling, or drainage, seek immediate medical attention.
• If you are cut or have a puncture wound, and have not had a tetanus immunization within the past five years, you need a tetanus booster.
• Never allow children to play in flood water.
• Soak dirty toys in clean, disinfected water, or dispose of them.

Avoid Eating, Drinking, or Touching Anything that Has Been Contaminated with Floodwaters

Wash your hands with soap and clean water for 20 seconds:

• Before preparing or eating food.
• After using the toilet and/or changing a diaper.
• After touching anything contaminated with flood water or sewage.

For more information, call 561-671-4013.