DHSS Press Release |
Date: March 27, 2000 DHSS-DPH11-2000 |
| Gregg C. Sylvester, M.D., Secretary Cynthia Collier, Communication Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 |
Contact: Allison Taylor Levine, DPH Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PUBLIC HEALTH ON CALL IN CASE OF FLOODING TONIGHT
Information about sanitation, cleanup of wastewater available
DOVER - In case of serious flooding this evening in New Castle County, state Division of Public Health staff members will be available to offer advice on cleaning up wastewater safely and effectively.
Weather forecasters are anticipating heavy rainfall this evening and have issued a flash-flood watch for northern parts of the state.
Call 911 for police, fire or ambulance only in life-threatening emergencies. For evacuation or emergency shelter, please call your county emergency management agency:
New Castle County Emergency Preparedness (302) 761-1720
Kent County Emergency Preparedness (302) 736-2222
Sussex Emergency Preparedness (302) 855-7803
For questions about cleanup or health concerns, residents may call the Division of Public Health's Northern Health Services at (302) 995-8650 during regular business hours. Or, call the Delaware Helpline tollfree at (800) 464-HELP and ask for Northern Health Services.
Flooding and its aftermath can lead to a number of health threats. Rugs, furniture and other household items can grow mold and bacteria if not cleaned and dried thoroughly. Basements should be pumped dry as soon as possible. Rugs, furniture and other items should not be stored in basements in homes that experience regular flooding. It is critical that all items be thoroughly dried to prevent harmful bacteria and mold from growing.
Also, if flood waters cause storm sewers to back up, fecal bacteria can be extremely dangerous. If sewage overflows in your home, wait for water to recede, then clean and sanitize all affected surfaces with bleach as soon as possible.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
