Inundations cause many kinds of damages to lives and properties. In flood-affected areas, people are not fully out of risk even after the flood water recedes. Here are some necessary precautions to save adults and children from diseases and accidents after the floods. 

Necessary Safety Measures to Minimise Health Risk after Floods

Purify Water Before Drinking

After a flood, waterborne diseases become a significant risk. To prevent water-borne diseases like cholera, diarrhea, etc it is essential to manage potable water for drinking, cooking, and washing cookeries. When the flood water recedes, people should purify water by boiling or using water-purification tablets. Besides these, storing rainwater can be a temporary solution.  

Read more: Ways to Purify Water during Flood, Disaster, Emergency Situations

During inundation, tubewells may get contaminated with low levels of faecal organisms.  However, water from deep tubewell is safer. 

Avoid Contaminated Water

The contaminated flood water should not be used for drinking, cooking, or washing clothes, as it may contain harmful bacteria and pollutants that could affect health. People should avoid wading through the remnant flood water while walking or passing by. The associated risk of touching or playing in the stagnant flood water should be discussed with children. 

Read more: How to Help Flood-affected People in Bangladesh

Protection from Snakes and Insects 

Floods often displace wildlife, including snakes, which can pose a threat. Be vigilant in and around the homestead area. Consult with kids to avoid playing in areas with tall grass or debris to avoid snake bites. 

Furthermore, use insect repellents for protection against mosquitoes, which can spread diseases like dengue. Sleeping under a mosquito net is also advisable for added protection.

Read more: How to Stay Safe from Snakes During and After Flood

Electric and Gas Safety

Floods can damage electrical systems and gas lines, creating hazards in your home. It is important to avoid touching electrical appliances or switches if your home has been flooded. If there is any torn electric wire, seek help from electricians. If you detect a gas odour or suspect a leak, leave the area immediately.

Read more: How to Avoid Electric or Gas-related Accidents during Flood

Sanitise Your Home

After the flood water goes down, the harmful contaminants and bacteria can remain on the walls and floor of your home. Depending on the structure and material of your home, use sanitizers, and hot water in the purification process. 

Take Healthcare Advise

During a flood, many people suffer from colds, flu, fever, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, skin diseases, etc. Besides these, people previously suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure, etc may experience worsened health conditions. 

Read more: Flood Control and How to Minimise Losses

Therefore, it is crucial to take health check-ups and resume regular medicines when the local healthcare centres and medicine stores start providing services after the flood. Furthermore, flood victims can use authentic Bangladeshi health apps to take doctor’s advice online.

Takeaways

Floods damage human lives and properties. However, the damage may not end even after the flood water subsides. When the flood is gone, it is necessary to use clean, purified water for drinking and cooking to prevent outbreaks of water-borne diseases. Cautions are necessary to stay safe from snake and insect bites in and around the home. Sanitising homes, and taking essential medical help are necessary to prevent health issues. Furthermore, safety from damaged electric wires or gas lines can save lives. These safety measures can cut down the risk of post-flood casualties. 

Read more: Aiding Flood Victims: Guideline for Relief Operations and Safe Volunteering