Be safe around flood waters

Lisa Hayes Contributor In the aftermath of Hurricane Debby, the Florida Department of Health in Jefferson County (DOH) urges residents to be aware of the health risks associated with flooding. Skin contact with flood waters does not, by itself, pose a serious health risk. However, health hazards are a concern when waters are or become contaminated with bacteria or contain dangerous debris. DOH-Jefferson recommends the following to prevent illness or injury from flood waters: • Basic hygiene is critical. If you are under a boil water notice, use commercially bottled water for mixing baby formula. Wash your hands with soap and either disinfected or boiled and cooled water, especially b