Hygiene After a Disaster

Severe storms are a common occurrence during the spring and summer months. Hurricanes are a threat on the coasts, while tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flooding can occur anywhere. While survival and safety are the primary concern during the storm, those affected by disasters often forget to take proper precautions after the threat has passed. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention offers several tips for safety and hygiene when cleaning up after a natural disaster.

Handwashing
• Wash your hands immediately after cleanup, food preparation or treating a wound.

• Use clean, running water for at least 20 seconds.

• Use soap or hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol.

Dental Hygiene/Drinking Water
• Mix 1/8 teaspoon of unscented bleach into clear water and ¼ teaspoon into cloudy water that will be used for drinking or brushing your teeth. Mix well and wait 30 minutes before using.

• Be sure to clean any containers or utensils used as well. Add one teaspoon of unscented bleach and clean thoroughly before letting air dry.

Minor Wounds (Cuts, Scrapes)
• Wash your hands as described above before cleaning the wound.

• Use disposable latex gloves rather than bare fingers if possible.

• Apply pressure directly to the wound to stop any bleeding.

• Flood the wound with clean water or a saline solution.

• Clean the area around the wound with soap and water and pat dry before applying an adhesive bandage.

• If the wound is severe or you’re unable to clean it properly, seek medical attention.

Food and Food Surfaces
• Throw away any food that may have come in contact with flood water.

• Throw away all perishable foods in your refrigerator if power was lost for more than four hours. Frozen items in your freezer can last between 24 and 48 hours depending on how full the freezer is and how often it is opened.

• Throw away any canned items that are bulging or damaged.

• Clean any surfaces that have come in contact with flood waters using soap and clean water. Sanitize by using 1 teaspoon of bleach for every gallon of water used. Dispose of any dish rags, clothes or wooden cutting boards exposed to flood water.