The Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County is urging residents and visitors to stay out of floodwater after heavy rain and storms, citing both drowning and health risks.
Officials said floodwater can be deadly even for strong swimmers. Fast-moving shallow water can sweep people off their feet, and standing water can be dangerous to small children. Drivers should never enter flooded roads, the agency said, because vehicles can stall or be swept away and do not offer protection from the water.
Floodwater can carry harmful bacteria and viruses, so the department advises against wading through it and against touching it when skin is cut or wounded. Anyone who comes into contact with floodwater should wash thoroughly with soap and clean water and change into clean clothes. A wound that turns red, swollen or starts draining needs prompt medical care.
People who are cut or punctured and have not had a tetanus shot in the past five years should get a booster. Children should not play in floodwater, and dirty toys should be cleaned in disinfected water or thrown away. Residents should also wash their hands for 20 seconds with soap and water after using the toilet, changing a diaper, or touching anything exposed to floodwater or sewage.
