Eat and drink safely

Avoid food exposed to flood waters

Discard any food that is not in a waterproof container if there is any chance that it has come into contact with flood water. Discard wooden cutting boards, plastic utensils, baby bottle nipples and pacifiers.

Thoroughly wash all metal pans, ceramic dishes and utensils that came in contact with flood water with hot soapy water and sanitize by boiling them in clean water or by immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water.

Purifying water, including boiling, using purification kits or using household chemicals such as bleach can remove unwanted bacteria from most water, according to the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Services.

Boiling

Water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute and be cooled before dispensing into a clean container. Water that is cloudy should be boiled from 3 to 5 minutes. If your community is under a boil-water advisory, follow the local health department’s recommendations.Water-Purification Kits

Water-purification range from chemical disinfectants (liquid or pellets) to water filtration devices and are generally designed for small quantities of water.

Household Chemicals

Household chemicals, such as bleach and iodine, if used properly, can purify water but it may have an odor or taste.

Purifying Water

1. Add the recommended level of the chemical, based on the below table, using a clean, uncontaminated medicine dropper or suitable utensil.