While the flooding emergency in Boulder and surrounding areas is still continuing, once the waters recede many Boulder residents will be faced with some flood clean up in and around their property. Please take note of Boulder County's informational page: .
Some basic facts to keep in mind:
- If you enter swiftly flowing water, you risk drowning -- regardless of your ability to swim.
- When returning to your home after a flood, be aware that may contain sewage.
- Keep children and pets out of the affected area until cleanup has been completed.
- All electrical equipment and appliances must be completely dry before returning them to service. It is advisable to have a certified electrician check these items if there is any question.
- If your home has been flooded and has been closed up for several days, presume your home has been contaminated with mold. (See .)
- Keeping hands clean during an emergency helps prevent the spread of germs.
- If your home or unit lost power, once power is restored, check the temperature inside your refrigerator and freezer. You can safely eat or refreeze food in the freezer if it is below 40 F.
- If your home is on a public water system or, if you use well water and the well has NOT been covered with flood waters, then the water is likely safe to drink, even if your basement has flooded. If you’ve lost water pressure, or if you’re aware of pipe breaks in your neighborhood, then do not drink the water without boiling it first, or use an alternate source of water, such as bottled water. (Currently, Lyons, Lefthand, and Jamestown water systems have been compromised. Boil orders are in effect for these areas.)
[Photo credit: Flickr user Charles Anderson]