Help your family

Help your family...because a flood affects everyone.

Health officials recommend that everyone get a tetanus shot before returning to a flooded area. Local clinics and hospitals will be set up to administer those shots.

It's a good idea to keep small children, pregnant women, and people with health problems away from flooded areas.

Floodwater can be contaminated by substances from upstream, including sewage, pesticides, manure, fertilizers, and many other contaminants. Use bottled water or water from a safe public water supply for family drinking, cooking, and cleaning until authorities say the water is safe.

Many insects, especially mosquitoes, thrive in wet environments. Protect yourself and your family, especially in the weeks following the flood.

• Wear an insect repellant that contains DEET.
• Wear light colored clothing and, as often as possible, long sleeves and pants.
• Avoid going outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Eliminate mosquitoes' breeding grounds by removing stagnant water.

Be aware that children may feel like they are to blame for the increased tension you're feeling. Talking with them about what has happened and reassuring them helps them feel in control. Listen to your children, and watch them play. Children often express anger when playing after a disaster. Acknowledge those feelings, and encourage children to talk about them. Reassure your children that you will take care of them. You can get more information about helping childern with cope with stress from the local Extension office in your state. Click here for information how to contact your local Extention office.

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