What are the risks from consumption of and/or prolonged contact with contaminated flood water?
Surface Water (Lakes, Rivers, and the Ocean) Significant waterborne outbreaks of disease have not been seen following floods in the United States. However, large quantities of sewage, chemicals, and other hazardous materials can be released into surrounding oceans, lakes, rivers, canals, and storm water retention ponds following floods and power outages. These same contaminants may also be present in flooded areas that are not normally covered with water such as streets, residential structures (e.g. basements), or drainage ditches. Potential health impacts for some of these contaminants are outlined below. Prevention is the most effective method for avoiding health consequences from contaminated water following floods. If possible, you should avoid contact (e.g. drinking, inhaling, swimming, walking/wading, etc.) with potentially contaminated water following a flood. If you cannot avoid the water, wear personal protective equipment such as boots and gloves. Wash thoroughly with soap an
