Department of Health in Collier County offers post-storm advice

The Florida Department of Health in Collier County is working to support the local and state responses to public health needs resulting from Tropical Storm Eta.

The storm might be over, but that doesn’t mean the danger is. The Department offers Collier County residents the following advice:

• Don’t drive through flooded areas and standing water. Turn around, don’t drown.
• Stay out of floodwater. There can be many hidden dangers in floodwater including down
  power lines and contaminants that could lead to illnesses such as wound infections,
  rash and gastrointestinal illness.
• Keep food and water safe. Throw food away that has not been refrigerated due to power
  outages. Do not use water that you suspect is contaminated to wash dishes, brush your
  teeth, wash your hands, or make baby formula.
• Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Place your generator and any gasoline-powered
  engine outside at least 20 feet from any window, door or vent. Generators and gas grills
  should be used outside only.
• Stay safe during a power outage. Avoid downed power lines, be aware of your risk for heat stroke, heat exhaustion and fainting.

Knowing when water is safe to drink is key to staying safe. The Florida Department of Health’s website has a page listing areas under boil water notices.

During severe weather and other emergencies, the State Assistance Information Line, a
toll-free hotline, is activated to provide accurate and up-to-date information on emergency or disaster situations impacting the Florida. The SAIL hotline is: (800) 342-3557. You can also get helpful information from DOH-Collier’s Twitter page @HealthyCollier.