What is the most dangerous thing about a flood?
The main threats to health during and immediately after a flood are drowning, and injuries caused by accidents in flowing water. Walking or even driving through floodwater is risky – six inches of fast flowing water can knock you over and two feet of water will float your car. Manhole covers may have come off and there may be other hazards you can’t see. The other main health hazard in floods come from the stress and strain of the event and clean-up. Take time to look after your and your family’s mental health and wellbeing. Do not overexert yourself in the clean-up, and you’ll avoid added health problems. There is also a serious danger posed by carbon monoxide fumes from the indoor use of generators and other fuel-powered equipment, such as driers.
