HomeHealth and safety
If you have children or pets
If you have children don’t let them play in floodwater. They could drown or get infections. Contaminated toys will need to be disinfected or discarded.If your garden floods don’t let children or pets onto affected grass or paved areas until the areas have been cleaned. Remove any toilet waste from affected areas by shovelling it into black bags, and sealing them.
After the grass has grown and been cut once there should be no further risk as sunlight and soil will usually destroy harmful bacteria within a week.
Water advice
Wash taps and let them run for a few minutes before use. Mains tap water should not be contaminated after flooding.If you notice a change in water quality, such as the water becoming discoloured or there is a change in taste or smell contact Northern Ireland Water.
Call the Waterline on 08457 440 088 or visit the Northern Ireland Water website
If tap water in your area has been contaminated health warnings will be issued to the public in the media and by Northern Ireland Water. Follow the instructions given.
Water used in food preparation should be boiled and allowed to cool. Tap water should be brought to the boil and cooled before use in the preparation of all food. For more information go to the DHSSPS website.
Floods can block drains and sewers, so check they are clear before flushing toilets and running taps.
Sewage systems in private housing developments should also be checked carefully for any health hazards as saturated ground can affect their function causing them to flood.
Vermin and pests
Flood water may encourage creatures such as rats to seek refuge in buildings. If you discover any animals contact our Pest Control Service on 028 9027 0431 or go to our pest control section.Cleaning and disinfecting
Scrub surfaces with hot soapy water and heavy-duty detergent. Place all contaminated items and food that have come into contact with flood water, into sealable, heavy-duty refuse sacks.Don’t dispose of these items until asked to do so by your insurer, broker or loss adjuster.
You may notice mould growing on damp walls. This should disappear as your home dries out. Areas where mould remains can be cleaned with warm water and detergent.
If specialist treatment is necessary for persistent mould this should be carried out by a skilled operator who will use the appropriate protective equipment and precautions. You should not attempt to do this yourself.
You can get health advice from our Environmental Health department by phoning 028 9027 0428.
