Drinking water wells, septic systems at risk during floods

Wednesday, January 7, 2009 Flood health tips from Public Health – Seattle & King County

KING COUNTY, WA – Floods can damage septic systems and make well water undrinkable as well as contaminate food and medicine. Flooded basements and buildings should also be cleaned up carefully. Detailed information on the following flood and health related topics may be found in English and other languages at www.kingcounty.gov/health/disaster

Drinking water wells:

• If you suspect that your well has been flooded, do not drink the water until the well has been tested and decontaminated. Wells that are flooded can be contaminated by germs that cause serious illness such as giardiasis, gastroenteritis, and hepatitis.
• If your well is possibly contaminated, drink bottled water or boil your water for at least one minute before drinking. 

Septic systems:

• Septic tank systems that have been flooded should not be used.
• After waters have receded, check the system for broken lines or sewage surfacing.
• Correct any problems before using the system.
• If you have questions about septic systems contact our Community Environmental Health Section at 206-296-4932.

Safe food and medicine after a flood:

• Discard food, medicines, and cosmetics that were not in water tight containers and that were exposed to flood waters. Disinfect water tight containers that were exposed to flood water.
• Discard all milk, fish, meat, poultry, and eggs, if refrigeration has been off and the temperature is greater than 41° F.

Chemicals:

• Businesses and homes often have chemical products like cleaners, solvents, fuels and pesticides that are harmful to humans, animals and the environment.  Store these products above flood height and in spill proof containers. Some of these materials can burn, kill, poison or react violently with water or air if they are not stored safely.  If you have questions contact the Household Hazards Line at 206-296-4692 or www.govlink.org/hazwaste/house/phoneline.html

Cleaning a basement or house after a flood

• Be careful before using any electric appliance in a house that has been flooded.
• Do not turn on wet electric appliances because they may cause an electric shock, overheat, or start a fire.
• Fumes from all solvents are toxic and some are flammable.

Providing effective and innovative health and disease prevention services for over 1.8 million residents and visitors of King County, Public Health - Seattle & King County works for safer and healthier communities for everyone, every day.