Friday, July 1, 2011

Shields Up - Preventing Water Related Illness....

With near record rainfall and flooding across the country in 2011, it is going to be extraordinarily difficult for anybody to escape having to deal with inclement weather on at least one occasion.  Aside from the normal problems associated with water, namely the damage it can cause to homes, businesses, and property), it is also important to be aware of the very real threat to your physical health.  So let us look at some ways to keep your good health about you when the weather turns nasty.

Flowing water or floodwater can be a haven for bacteria and viruses.  Invest in a good pair of waterproof boots or willies to protect your skin against contact with unwanted elements.

Where there is water or moisture, you’re going to find mosquitos, which carry any number of diseases and infections.  Anti-bug creams or sprays will go a long way towards defending you from those annoying and potentially dangerous bites. 

You’ll also want to cover as much of your skin as possible.  Skin contact is the easiest way for infections to spread, so keep the exposure to such problems at an absolute minimum.

Make sure your clothes are of a material that will dry quickly.  You may get rain drenched going into work, and it isn’t healthy for you to remain in wet clothes for the duration of your work day.  There was a reason you mother always told you to get out of those wet things, so avoid an unwanted case of the sniffles by taking steps to keep dry, such as making sure you have water resistant clothing and raincoats or jackets to keep you dry.

Do all you can to keep your shoes and feet dry.  Standing in wet shoes all day can be extremely unhealthy for your feet, causing irritations and rashes that may take several treatments to turn back.

If you have been unfortunate enough to have to wade through flood waters, take the necessary steps to protect yourself from germs or pollutants.  Soak your clothes in hot water to kill any bacteria you may have picked up.  Bathe yourself with Dettol to take care of any skin infections that may have been caused by polluted water.  And use an antiseptic cream over any blisters or open wounds that may have been exposed to stagnant flood waters.

Remember to eat and drink warm foods and liquids to help raise your body temperature.  Exposure to flood waters often causes a marked decrease in body temp, rendering you susceptible to illness and infections.  You want to head these problems off at the pass if at all possible.

Remember that the damage caused by water is not just confined to your property.  Your health and well-being may be at considerable risk as well.  Taking the appropriate steps to protect yourself and your loved ones is vitally important during this time.

Of course for flood damage to your home or business, Water Damage Local.com is available 24/7 to handle all of your flooding, water damage, mold remediation, and other related needs.  Call today for a free estimate or phone consultation.

No comments:

Post a Comment