PRESS RELEASE FROM CHIPPEWA COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH (8/13/10):

Recent heavy rainfall in the area could cause localized over-land flooding in low-lying areas. Chippewa County health officials urge victims of flooding to follow health and safety precautions.

“Many residents wonder what to do and where to turn for assistance during and after flooding” said Jean Durch, Health Officer. “The Chippewa County Department of Public Health recommends that if you have a private well that has been submerged by flood waters, do not drink the water. Wait until the waters recede, disinfect your well, and then sample the well for bacteria.”

Water sample kits may be obtained from the Chippewa County Department of Public Health. If water sample test results indicate unsafe levels of bacteria present, it is recommended that the well be disinfected again and then re-sampled. Information on how to perform well sanitizing and sampling can be obtained from the Health Department or on the Department of Natural Resources web site at:
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/dwg/flood.htm

Here are some other important tips for homeowners when cleaning and repairing their flood-damaged homes:

oIf using a portable generator, keep it outside and far away from the building. The exhaust or fumes from a portable generator could kill you in minutes if you breathe it in.

oRemember to protect yourself while cleaning. Wear work boots, eye and hand protection and, if working with mold, respiratory protection.

oYou could become exposed to tetanus bacteria from the environment during clean-up. If you’re not sure when you had your last tetanus immunization please contact your health care provider or the Chippewa County Department of Public Health for more information about getting a tetanus booster.

If you have further questions about protecting your health during floods, contact the Chippewa County Department of Public Health at 715-26-7900 or 1-800-400-3678 or