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News : International : Caribbean News : Turks & Caicos Islands Last Updated: Feb 13, 2017 - 1:45:37 AM


TCI Ministry of Health and Human Services issues advice to residents in areas affected by flooding
By TCI Government Press Office
Aug 27, 2014 - 1:08:38 PM

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Photo: Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS - Heavy rainfall from the passing of Tropical Storm Cristobal over the weekend has resulted in significant flooding in several Islands especially Providenciales, North Caicos and Middle Caicos.

· Beware of and avoid areas where there is floodwater as it may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Don’t allow children to play in floodwater.

·  Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the power company.

·  Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible; damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.

·  Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.

·  Limit contact with areas and items affected by sewage water.

·  Clean and disinfect everything that got wet, mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.

·  Look before you step. After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery. Use protective gear if you cannot avoid floodwaters.

·  Do not drive into flood areas.

·  Be prepared! Pack a bag with important items in case you need to evacuate. Don’t forget to include needed medications.

· Listen to the radio and television for information.

· Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.

Exercise all measures to ensure water and food are safe to consume by doing the following:

·  Boil water or use only bottled water.

·  Discard any food items that were contaminated by floodwater. Spoiled food, flooded cosmetics and medicines are health hazards. When in doubt, throw them out.

· Make sure your food supply is stored in high and dry places.

·  Ensure that sealed and canned items are cleaned and sanitized before opening them.

·  Use double plastic bags to store garbage.

During heavy rainfalls and flooding, mosquito breeding increases. Here are some tips to prevent and control the spread of vector borne illnesses such as chikungunya and dengue fever.

·  Properly dispose of any old tires since they can breed thousands of mosquitoes.

· Clear roof gutters of debris.

·  Put oil in areas where there is stagnant water to create a thin film to prevent mosquito breeding

·  Cover all water containers.

·   Where there are large bodies of standing water, please notify the Environmental Health Department so that they can treat them on; 338-5062 (Provo) or 338-2143 (Grand Turk).



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