STAYING SAFE AFTER TROPICAL STORM FAY

Tropical Storm Fay is gone but left excessive flooding and power outages in some parts of our community.

Here are a few tips from the Martin County Health Department to keep you and your family safe following the storm.

STANDING WATER:

Do not allow children to play in flood waters. The waters may be contaminated with bacteria and can cause illness. In addition, snakes and biting insects may be in flood waters and also pose a risk.

If you do come in contact with flood water, be sure wash all exposed areas and clothing thoroughly to avoid illness.

SEPTIC SYSTEMS:

Due to the excessive amounts of water, some communities may be experiencing problems with their septic system. If you have a septic system that works with a dosing pump, it will not function without electricity. It is best to refrain from using water within your home since the tanks may back up, sending sewage into your home.

If sewage has backed up into your home, stay out of the affected areas. If your entire home is saturated, abandon your home until the problem is cleared up and all affected areas have been cleaned and sanitized.

PROPER SEWAGE CLEAN UP PROCEDURES:

Heavy rainfall from hurricanes may result in flood waters that are contaminated with sewage. Proper cleaning and disinfecting procedures are recommended to prevent illness.

How to clean up sewage contaminated items and sewage spills inside your home:

• Wear protective clothing such as rubber boots and waterproof gloves.
• Clean walls, hard-surfaced floors and other household surfaces with soap and water and disinfect with a solution of 1/4 cup of bleach in one gallon of water. Once cleanup is complete dry out affected items to prevent the growth of mold.
• Do not mix ammonia cleansers with bleach as toxic vapors will form.
• Wash all linens and clothing in hot water or dry clean them.
• Steam clean carpets.

For more information, please call the Martin County Health Department at (772) 221-4090.

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