The Alabama Department of Public Health is urging residents of flooded areas – especially around Weiss Lake where there has been flash flooding – to test their water wells prior to consuming water from them.  Private wells which have been covered by flood water should be assumed to have been contaminated. DO NOT drink water from your well or feed it to your animals until you have tested it and received a satisfactory result.

Sample kits may be obtained from the local health department and state health department laboratories which are equipped to sample well water for bacteriological contamination.

Once a satisfactory sample is obtained the well should be monitored by continued sampling to ensure the quality of the water supply.  Until water is known to be free of contaminants – residents should only use clear water that has been brought to a rolling boil for one minute, or purified bottled water.  Flooding also may result in contaminants from various sources being washed into streams, creeks and rivers.  Should flooding actually occur these waters could contain fecal material from overflowing sewage systems and holding tanks, as well as other contaminants from a variety of sources.

Although skin contact with flood waters does not by itself pose a serious health risk, there is a risk of disease from eating or drinking anything contaminated by the flood water.  If a person has open cuts or sores that will be exposed to the flood water, keep them as clean as possible by washing with soap to control infection.  If a wound develops redness, swelling or drainage, promptly seek medical attention.

Although it’s early in the year with the fluctuating temperatures the flooding may cause the eruption of mosquitoes. Also be aware of balls of fire ants that are often common in flooded areas.  When working in floodwaters dress appropriately, using rubber boots, rain gear and cuffed gloves can help prevent ants from reaching the skin.  In addition, any fish caught from these waters should be thoroughly cooked prior to eating, and after handling fish, persons should be sure thoroughly wash their hands with soap and clean water.

For more information visit the website www.alabamapublichealth.gov