148 Chapter Two – Lesson Five

Lesson 5: Dealing with flooding and water issues

Explain how water can become contaminated during/after a flood

Water is an essential resource for life, and its purity and safety are critical for human consumption and use. However, natural disasters such as floods can cause the contamination of water sources, posing significant health risks to humans. During a flood, water sources can become contaminated through various means. Floods occur when there is an overflow of water from rivers, lakes, or oceans, which can carry large amounts of sediment, debris, and organic materials. These materials can introduce pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and parasites into the water sources.

Another way in which water can become contaminated during and after a flood is through the mixing of sewage with floodwater. Sewage systems can overflow during heavy rainfall or floods, causing untreated human waste to mix with floodwater. This can introduce a host of bacteria and viruses that can cause diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A.

Floods can also lead to the contamination of water sources through chemical pollutants and toxic substances. Floodwaters can potentially wash away hazardous chemicals, pesticides, and other toxic substances into nearby waterways, leading to contamination. Petroleum products and industrial substances can also contaminate water sources.

After a flood, water sources can continue to be contaminated by stagnant water left behind. Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites that can cause waterborne diseases. If floodwater is not drained and dried out sufficiently after a flood, it can create suitable conditions for the growth and spread of harmful pathogens.

In conclusion, floods can cause water sources to become contaminated through various means such as sediment, debris, organic materials, sewage, chemicals, and stagnant water. The contamination of water sources poses significant health risks to humans, and it is crucial to take necessary precautions such as boiling water before consumption, using disinfectants and chlorination to purify water, and waiting for authorities to declare water sources safe before resuming its use.

How to deal with septic and well systems after the events of a flood

Septic and well systems are vulnerable to damage and contamination during floods. To properly address the issue, the following steps should be taken:

1. Turn off the electricity supply to the well pump or septic system to avoid any electrical hazards.

2. Do not use the septic system or well water until they have been checked and declared safe by a professional.

3. Hire a licensed and professional septic and well system inspector to evaluate the conditions of the systems and determine if repairs or replacements are necessary.

4. If the well has been submerged, disinfection is necessary before it’s considered safe to drink. Remove the cap and flush out the stagnant water until the water runs clear.

5. For the septic system, check that it is still level and the pipes are not damaged. Clean and pump the septic tank as soon as possible or if it is showing signs of overflow.

6. Test the well water for any bacterial contamination, including E.coli or coliform bacteria, and treat it if necessary.

7. Follow all local health and environmental regulations and guidelines for Septic and well systems.

In summary, professional assessment and repairs, water testing, and adherence to regulations should be the primary steps in repairing septic and well systems after a flood.

If you suspect that your well may have been flooded, it is important to carefully assess it before using the water. Look for signs of damage such as mud and debris, eroded ground around the well, visible electrical components, damage to the well casing, and a loose well cap. Hire a qualified professional or registered well driller to assess and service your well pump, as it is typically submerged inside the well casing and unable to be inspected.

Before turning on your well pump, make sure the well is repaired and disinfected. Remove any debris from the well casing and other accessible components, and re-grade the ground around the well to direct surface water away from the well casing. If you observe dislodged parts or cracking in the well casing, have a qualified professional repair your system.

If the pump’s control box was submerged, have an electrician clean and inspect it before restoring electrical service. Pump the well until the water runs clear to get rid of floodwater and use an outside spigot and hose to direct the water away from septic systems or public sewer. Disinfect the well water before using it for drinking, cooking, bathing, or showering by boiling it for at least one minute, adding liquid chlorine bleach or iodine tablets, or following the directions on the package. Test the water to confirm that contamination has been removed before using it. Remember to continue using bottled water or disinfecting the water until it has been tested and found safe for use.

How mold can become an issue after a flood

After a flood, mold can quickly become an issue in a home due to the increased moisture levels. When water accumulates in a home’s interior, it takes only 48-72 hours for mold to start growing. Mold thrives in damp and humid environments, and especially when there’s a water source. Flooding can create the perfect environment for mold growth. The high humidity levels from the trapped moisture in a home create the ideal breeding conditions for various types of mold, including toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum).

One sign of moisture and mold in a home is a musty odor. A damp, moldy smell is usually the first indication of a moisture problem or mold growth. Black or green patches of mold growth can also be spotted on walls, wood materials such as baseboards, or ceilings. Another sign of mold is water staining or discoloration on the walls, floors, or ceilings. Mold can also cause allergies, respiratory issues, headaches or dizziness for some people. Residents in a mold-affected flood-ravaged home may experience difficulty in breathing and other respiratory symptoms.

To prevent mold growth after a flood, it is essential to dry out water-damaged areas and materials quickly and completely. Otherwise, mold spores may go airborne and be inhaled, causing respiratory issues. Using a mold remediation company will help prevent mold causing health issues in a home. Once mold has taken hold, it can pose a significant risk to the home and its occupants. Therefore, it is crucial to act quickly in the case of flooding and engage professional help to prevent mold infestation and potential health issues.

Creating a Plan

1. Evaluate the Potential Risks of Flooding
To develop an effective flood plan, you need to evaluate the potential risks of flooding at your property. To do this, you can access floodplain maps from your local government or check online sources, such as the FEMA website. You can also contact Neptune Flood to determine your flood coverage needs quickly.

2. Plan an Effective Evacuation Strategy
If you live in a high-risk area, it is crucial to plan an evacuation strategy that is safe and efficient. You should identify a route that is away from the floodplain and ensure that all family members understand the plan. Practicing the evacuation plan is also an important step. You should have a predetermined destination for you and family members.

3. Verify and Document Your Property Value
It’s vital to assess your property’s value by documenting all your possessions and valuables. Take pictures or videos of your belongings for insurance purposes. Also, develop a contact list of emergency responders, insurance agents, family members and, friends.

4. Organize an Emergency Contact List
As part of your preparedness plan, you must create an emergency contact list. This list should not only include personal contacts but also important agencies or organizations that are vital during the emergency response process.

5. Assemble an Emergency Kit
You should prepare a well-stocked emergency kit that includes everything you would need in a crisis. This kit should contain essential items such as non-perishable foods, bottled water, a first aid kit, medications, and an emergency plan.

6. Secure Effective Insurance Coverage
Protect yourself by securing flood insurance as finding the right insurance policy can help cover costs in the event of flood damage.

Key parts to an EAP procedure for a flooding incident

An emergency action plan is critical to responding effectively and efficiently to a flooding incident. Specifically, the key parts of the procedure for a flooding incident include thorough planning, early warning and evacuation, clear communication, designation of essential personnel and resources, and post-flooding recovery.

Firstly, planning is integral to emergency action planning. This includes conducting a risk assessment of the area and surrounding environment, identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities, and establishing procedures and protocols to mitigate the hazards. A clear plan should also be developed and shared with everyone involved in the emergency response, both within and outside the organization.

Secondly, early warning and evacuation are crucial components of the emergency action plan. It’s important to have measures in place for monitoring weather alerts, water levels, and flood forecasts. An early warning should trigger the evacuation of vulnerable populations and transport them to a safe location. The emergency action plan should also ensure that appropriate routes are established and clear procedures are in place for specific populations, such as people with disabilities, pregnant women, and children.

Thirdly, clear and concise communication is essential to coordinating an effective response. Swiftness and accuracy in communication could be the difference between a successful and unsuccessful emergency. Communication protocols should be established for internal and external stakeholders, such as employees, emergency responders, media, and the general public.

Fourthly, the emergency action plan should prioritize the designation of essential personnel and allocation of resources. This includes identifying key roles and responsibilities during the emergency, such as coordinators, responders, and support staff. The plan should also identify the necessary resources and equipment that will be needed to minimize the impact of the flood, such as sandbags, pumps and water diversion methods.

Finally, post-flooding recovery is a key component. The procedure should ensure that the impacted area is assessed for damages, and rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction begins as soon as possible. Those impacted by the flood should be offered support, including emotional care and aid to help them get back on their feet.

In conclusion, an emergency action plan for flooding should be flexible enough to adapt to changing conditions but should have a clear and concise framework that includes planning and preparation, early warning, evacuation, communication, resource allocation, and post-flooding recovery to ensure that those in impacted areas remain safe.

Procedures for floods

There are many different ways to deal with floods but here is one strategy that could be utilized.

1. Develop a flood emergency plan: Communities should have a designated flood emergency plan in place that outlines the steps to take in case of a flood. The plan should include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and a detailed response procedure.

2. Educate the community: It is essential to educate the community about the dangers and risks of flooding and how to prepare for it. This can be done through community meetings, brochures, and online resources.

3. Monitor flood alerts and update residents: The community should be updated regularly about the weather forecast and any flood warnings. Awareness of the current flood risks can prepare individuals to take appropriate actions at the right time.

4. Provide sandbags and other protective gear: The community could provide residents with sandbags, flashlights, life jackets, and other essential protective gear to prevent damage to people and property.

5. Evacuation and emergency response: Have a plan in place for the evacuation of people and pets in case of a flood; this should include safe routes and assembly points. Emergency response services should also be available in the event of any injury, illness or medical emergency.

6. Recovery efforts: Once flood waters have receded, the clean-up and recovery efforts are crucial. Various organizations may offer aid opportunities to the affected residents and businesses, including food and shelter, home repair, and loan assistance.

Creating an emergency procedure (part of an EAP) for a flood

An emergency procedure for a flood should include the following steps:

1. Notify employees: As soon as a flood alert is issued, notify all employees of the potential danger. The message should be clear and concise, stating the severity of the situation and the immediate actions that need to be taken.

2. Shut off electrical equipment: Turn off all electrical and gas equipment in the building to prevent the risk of a fire or explosion.

3. Shut off utilities: If time permits, shut off all utilities (water, gas, and electricity) to the building. This will minimize the risk of further damage.

4. Secure important documents: Move any important documents, books, or equipment to higher ground or a safe location.

5. Evacuate the building: If evacuation is necessary, provide clear instructions to employees on where to gather and how to exit the building safely. Be sure to designate a meeting point so everyone can be accounted for.

6. Monitor the situation: Keep monitoring the weather and flood alerts to stay up-to-date on the situation. If necessary, communicate any updates to employees.

7. Clean up and recovery: After the flood, assess the damage and plan for the clean-up and recovery process. This may involve contacting a professional restoration company, filing an insurance claim, and replacing damaged equipment.

Throughout the emergency procedure, the safety of all employees should be the top priority. Regular drills and training sessions should be conducted to ensure everyone is prepared and know what to do in the event of a flood.