As San Juan County begins recovering from catastrophic flooding, San Juan Regional Medical Center encourages our community to take precautions to protect their health and safety even after floodwaters recede. Flooding can leave behind hazards that continue to threaten health and safety. Contaminated water, damaged structures, hazardous materials and injuries during cleanup are important concerns that should not be taken lightly.
“I'm looking forward to supporting our community as we recover from this event, but it’s important that people understand the health risks that can remain after the water recedes,” said Dr. Brad Greenberg, Medical Director of Emergency Preparedness for San Juan Regional Medical Center. “Taking the right precautions now can help prevent injuries and illness in the days and weeks ahead.”
Dr. Greenberg encourages residents to focus on three priorities as they navigate the recovery process.
1. Put safety first
Flood-damaged areas can remain dangerous long after the water has receded. Residents should follow local emergency management guidance and avoid returning to flooded homes or restricted areas until authorities have permitted reentry.
Keep these precautions in mind:
• Stay out of floodwater. It may contain sewage, chemicals, debris and other hazardous materials.
• Avoid damaged or unstable structures. Flooding can compromise a building's structural integrity, even when damage is not immediately visible.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when entering damaged properties or participating in cleanup. Depending on the conditions, this may include waterproof gloves, sturdy boots, eye protection and other protective gear.
• Never operate generators, charcoal grills or other fuel-burning equipment indoors or in enclosed spaces. These devices can produce carbon monoxide, a dangerous, odorless gas that can cause serious illness or death. Keep generators outdoors and away from doors, windows and vents, following manufacturer instructions.
Do not assume a home or property is safe simply because the water has gone down. Follow local instructions before beginning cleanup or returning to damaged areas.
2. Protect yourself from hidden health risks
Floodwater can carry sewage, bacteria, chemicals and other hazardous substances. Contact with contaminated materials can cause wound infections, gastrointestinal illnesses and other health problems.
As you begin cleaning up, take steps to reduce your exposure:
• Wash your hands frequently. Use soap and clean water, especially before eating, drinking or touching your face. If safe running water is unavailable, use an appropriate alternativesuch as hand sanitizer for hand hygiene.
• Use protective equipment. Wear appropriate PPE when handling flood-damaged belongings, removing debris or cleaning affected areas.
• Make sure drinking water is safe. Follow local public health guidance regarding drinking water advisories. Use bottled water or another approved safe source when advised.
• Clean and disinfect appropriate surfaces. Hard, non-porous materials may be salvageable with suitable cleaning and disinfection products used according to their instructions.
• Know what needs to be discarded. Porous materials, including mattresses and many carpets, can absorb contaminated water and may not be safely salvageable. Follow public health guidance when deciding what to keep and what to throw away.
Flood-damaged materials may contain more than visible dirt or mud. Sewage, chemicals and other hazardous substances can remain even after surfaces appear clean. When in doubt, prioritize safety and seek guidance from local health or emergency management officials.
3. Know when to seek medical care
Injuries and illnesses can develop during cleanup or after exposure to contaminated water. Pay attention to how you feel and seek medical care if you experience concerning symptoms, including:
• Fever
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, unusual weakness or decreased urination
• Wounds that become increasingly red, swollen, painful or warm
• Other new or worsening symptoms after possible exposure to floodwater or contaminated materials
Recovery includes caring for one another
Flooding can affect more than homes and property. It can interrupt access to essential medications, oxygen, dialysis, electricity and other medical services. For people who depend on these services, even a temporary disruption can quickly become dangerous.
Dr. Greenberg encourages residents to check on neighbors, family members and others who may be particularly vulnerable, including older adults, people with disabilities and those who rely on regular medical treatments or electrically powered medical equipment.
Ask whether they have safe drinking water, access to necessary medications and a plan for maintaining their medical care. If someone cannot access essential treatment or equipment, help them connect with their healthcare provider or appropriate emergency resources.
“We’re in this together as a community. Please make sure there are safe plans to maintain that care and seek help if needed,” said Dr. Greenberg.
As San Juan County moves forward, San Juan Regional Medical Center remains committed to supporting our neighbors with trusted health information and care when it is needed most.
For current information about evacuation areas, reentry restrictions and drinking water safety, follow guidance from the San Juan County Office of Emergency Management. In a medical emergency, call 911.