Why Floodwater or Standing Water Isn't Safe

Floodwater and standing water should never be entered on foot or by car. Both can contain numerous threats that could lead to injuries or even diseases. Since you can never be sure of what might be in floodwater or standing water, it's safest to avoid it whenever possible. Here's a closer look at why it's critical to avoid floodwater and standing water.

Is Floodwater or Standing Water Safe to Swim in?

It's never safe to swim in floodwater or standing water. It can contain any number of harmful substances, objects, or live pests, including:

• Human and animal waste
• Industrial hazardous waste
• Physical objects, ranging from debris to car parts
• Wild or stray animals, including snakes
• Downed power lines
• Medical waste
• Other chemicals
• Infectious germs or diseases
• Whole vehicles

If you'd have to wade through or swim in floodwater to get to your destination, find an alternate route. Testing your luck by entering floodwater or standing water is never worth it. You could end up getting harmed in numerous ways from just one area of floodwater or standing water. Be sure to inform children of the dangers of playing in floodwaters or standing water, as well. Also, never let anyone, human or pet, consume it or bathe in it.

Is Floodwater Safe to Drive in?

No, it's never safe to drive through floodwater or standing water, either. Remember the saying, "Turn around, don't drown!" from the National Weather Service. It's not really possible to estimate just how deep floodwaters or standing water is in any given area or what might be lurking beneath the surface. Attempting to drive through floodwater or standing water can pose a drowning risk on top of the risk of losing or severely damaging your vehicle.

Take road closures seriously, and never try to drive around barricades. You also never know how quickly floodwaters may be moving or if standing water could become moving water after you enter it. Trying to drive through water like this could lead to your vehicle and its inhabitants being swept away by a current.

Why Floodwater and Standing Water Should Always Be Avoided

Floodwater and standing water not only pose a drowning risk, but they also pose serious health risks. These types of water should never be used for drinking, bathing, or cleaning. In some cases, local authorities may rule it's safe to boil floodwaters before using it. However, never attempt to do this before receiving official instructions that it's safe.

Consuming or bathing in floodwaters or standing water can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses, skin rashes or infections, or more serious issues like tetanus. Teaching all family members to avoid floodwater and standing water is the most efficient way to prevent any of these issues from arising. 

What to Do if You Come into Contact with Floodwater or Standing Water

There might be certain instances in which you're trapped by floodwaters or standing water, leaving you with no choice but to enter it. If you're forced to enter floodwater or standing water for some reason, take the following action steps right away:

• Clean up ASAP: Clean any parts of your body that came into contact with the water thoroughly with soap and fresh, clean water ASAP. Rubbing alcohol or sanitizer can also be used.
• Treat wounds immediately: Thoroughly clean and tend to any wounds or open areas of skin right away.
• Change and wash clothes: All clothing that got contaminated by floodwater or standing water must be cleaned in hot (clean) water and detergent before being reused.

Fortunately, following these tips can help you minimize the possible repercussions of wading, walking, or otherwise moving through floodwater or standing water.

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Protecting Yourself from Floodwater and Standing Water Hazards

If you find yourself in a situation in which you must move through floodwater or standing water, first equip yourself with rubber boots and gloves, as well as goggles and other protective gear. Minimize contact with your skin, hair, and clothing as much as possible. Afterward, if you discover any puncture wounds or soiled areas of your skin, especially over open areas like cuts, seek medical attention right away. You can also take time to bandage or otherwise cover any cuts or wounds before coming into contact with floodwater. Wash your hands, and ideally, take a shower ASAP after moving through floodwater or standing water. 

Keep out of any bodies of water that could have also been contaminated by floodwater or standing water, such as rivers, lakes, and streams. Teach children to stay out of these areas after a flood, too. If your home has been flooded, clean and disinfect all surfaces. Toss any contaminated food or bottled water, and thoroughly disinfect any toys before children are allowed to play with them again.

Be on the lookout for pests after a flood has moved through your area. It's possible to find snakes, rodents, or other pests even after the water has mostly dried. Also, be cautious about any propane tanks that may have washed onto your property, as they can pose a risk of fire or explosion. Contact local authorities to have them removed instead of attempting to do it yourself. Finally, take extreme caution if you need to remove a car battery after it comes into contact with floodwater or standing water. If you must remove it yourself, wear insulated gloves to avoid acid that could have leaked as well as possible electric shock.

Be Aware of Electrical Hazards in and around Your Home after a Flood

After your home has been declared safe for reentry after a flood, be sure to shut off all its systems, including plumbing and electrical, right away. Also, be sure to shut off the gas to avoid the risk of explosions or fire. Avoid all power lines and contact professionals if any are in need of repair. You may choose to have your home professionally inspected after a major flooding event to get confirmation that it's safe to use the plumbing, electricity, and gas again.

Work with an Independent Insurance Agent to Get Flood Insurance

To get reimbursement for damage to your home and personal property after a flood, you'll need a flood insurance policy. A regular home insurance policy doesn't include coverage for natural flood damage. A local independent insurance agent can help you get set up with the right policy by shopping and comparing options from multiple insurance carriers for you. Ultimately, they'll help you find the overall best blend of coverage and cost.