For Immediate Release 1/20/12
11:15 a.m. Lane County Flood Update
Lane County Environmental Health is advising all residents of the possible adverse effects that may have occurred to private wells and food, due to recent flooding.
Lane County recommends that all residents with concerns that their private well has been contaminated should get their well water tested prior to consuming/using. If residents feel that their well has been compromised, we urge them to contact “drinking water” testing labs that can analyze their well water.
Listed below are two possible labs to contact for “drinking water” testing services:
Analytical Laboratory & Consultants
361 West 5th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97401-2506
(541) 485-8404 ()
Delta Environmental Services, Inc.
105 E. Hilliard Lane
Eugene, OR 97404
Q: Possible reasons that a well has been contaminated?
A: The well is shallow. The well has poor casing or seal. The well head has been flooded over.
Q: What if my well head is flooded?
A: Lane County recommends residents do not drink the water, do not bathe with the water, and do not prepare foods with possibly contaminated water. In this instance, Lane County recommends residents obtain bottled water for consumption. If there is no way to obtain bottled water prior to testing well water, Lane County recommends actively boiling water for one minute, prior to drinking, washing, or using for food preparation.
Q: Was my food contaminated by flood waters?
A: If there is reason to believe that flood waters have come in contact with unsealed food items, Lane County recommends that those food items be discarded. For food items that have been sealed (such as can goods), remove the labels and clean the outside of sealed items with soap and sanitizer (Sanitizer: Mix one tablespoon of household chlorine bleach to one gallon of water.), prior to opening and consuming. Throw out any food that cannot be kept cold or properly heated due to lack of power.
State and local health and safety officials offer the following additional tips:
Injury prevention: Stay out of flood waters. Even the strongest swimmers can drown
in flood waters. Do not drive through standing water. Never make contact with power lines or objects that are in contact with power lines. Wear eye protection when cleaning up storm debris.
Home safety: If there is standing water in your home, never turn power on or off yourself – contact an electrician.
First aid: Immediately clean all wounds with soap and clean water. If your skin or eyes come in contact with hazardous materials wash thoroughly with decontaminated water. Avoid getting cut because cuts can lead to tetanus. If possible, make sure your tetanus vaccination is up to date.
Mold: Remove mold by washing with soap and water and letting surfaces dry completely. Some materials such as moldy clothing, ceiling tiles and sheet rock may have to be replaced. If mold-related illness is suspected, consult a health care professional.
Carbon monoxide poisoning: Don't use a generator, pressure washer, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline- or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window, door, or vent. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas. If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, seek fresh air and consult with a health care professional right away.
For more information about injury prevention, food safety, wells, drinking water, and carbon monoxide during and after flooding, go to http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/CurrentHazards/Events/2012floods/Pages/index.aspx
Contact: Amber Fossen, Lane County Public Information, 541-359-9143