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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Floodwater Safety

Florida Department of Health - St. Johns County

Floodwater Safety

Download the Factsheet: Floodwater Safety Factsheet (PDF, 5MB)

DON’T DRIVE IN FLOODED AREAS

Drowning is a leading cause of storm related death. Turn around, don’t drown!

  • 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.
  • They can be swept away or may stall in moving water.

FLOODWATERS CAN BE CONTAMINATED

Avoid skin contact with floodwaters especially if you have open cuts and 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 puncture wound, and have not had a tetanus vaccination within the past 5 years, you need a tetanus booster.

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 changing a diaper.
    • After touching anything contaminated with flood water or sewage.

CHECK IF YOU’RE UNDER A BOIL WATER NOTICE

If you are unsure if your tap water is safe, boil or disinfect it.

  • Boiling tap water is the best way to kill harmful parasites, bacteria and viruses. The process is complete when the water is held at a rolling boil for at least one minute. Let the water cool before using.
  • If boiling is not an option, disinfect tap water by adding eight drops of regular unscented household bleach (4-6% strength)—this is about one-eighth teaspoon or a dime-sized puddle, per gallon of water. If a higher strength bleach is used (8.25% strength), only add seven drops of bleach.
  • Mix the solution and let it stand for 30 minutes. If the water is cloudy after 30 minutes, repeat the steps once.