DHS Urges Caution During Storm, Flood Cleanup Across Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE, WI — As communities begin cleaning up after recent storms, with more severe weather possible, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services is urging residents to take precautions to avoid injury and illness.

Officials say storm cleanup can expose people to serious hazards, including downed power lines, broken glass, sharp metal and unstable structures.

Residents are urged to avoid entering damaged buildings until they’ve been inspected by utility providers and a licensed contractor or building inspector.

Cleanup Safety Tips

To reduce the risk of injury during cleanup, DHS recommends:

• Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and gloves when handling debris
• Shut off electricity, natural gas and propane if damage is suspected
• Use battery-powered lanterns instead of candles if the power is out
• Never use generators, grills or camp stoves indoors or near openings
• Make sure tetanus vaccinations are up to date

Flood Safety: During And After

Flooding brings its own set of dangers, both during high water and after it recedes.

During a flood:

• Move to higher ground immediately if water is rising
• Turn off utilities and lock doors if evacuating
• Do not touch electrical equipment while wet or standing in water
• Never walk through moving water, even if it appears shallow
• Follow instructions from public safety officials

After a flood:

• Return home only when authorities say it is safe
• Avoid driving or walking through previously flooded areas
• Do not wade or swim in floodwater, which may contain chemicals or bacteria
• Use caution entering buildings due to possible structural damage
• Watch for mold, which can begin forming within days

Health, Water And Food Safety

Floodwaters can contaminate drinking water and food supplies.

• Private well users should avoid using water until it is disinfected and tested
• Throw out any food that came into contact with floodwater
• Discard perishable food after four hours without power
• Frozen food can be refrozen or cooked if still at 40°F or below or contains ice crystals

Residents who lost food purchased through FoodShare may request replacement benefits within 10 days of the loss, according to DHS.

Mental Health Support Available

Officials also warn that disasters can take a toll on mental health.

Anyone experiencing stress, anxiety or depression can call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990 or reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by call or text.

More information on storm recovery, flood cleanup and health risks is available through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.