The Orange County Health Department said on Friday that all Central Florida residents should take certain health precautions in light of the recent heavy rains which caused some flooding and standing water in areas of Orange County.
While by itself, flood waters do not pose a serious health risk, health hazards are a concern when waters become contaminated. Flood waters may contain fecal material, associated bacteria and viruses, the Health Department said.
Children should be restricted from playing in standing water, especially where there may be submerged septic systems. Besides bacteria and virus contamination, there may be chemicals from stormwater runoff or other hazards hidden by the floodwater.
Heavy rainfall can also make your well water unsafe, the Health Department said.
If you are unsure about the impact of flooding on your well water, either use bottled water or boil or disinfect all the water you use for drinking, making beverages, cooking, brushing your teeth, washing dishes, and washing areas of the skin that have been cut or injured.  Water from wells in which the casings have been submerged should not be used until the well has been bacteriologically tested and found to be safe for drinking purposes.
For information about disinfecting contaminated wells please visit the Orange County Health Department’s website at www.orchd.com.
