Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health urges everyone to think about safety while fighting the rising Missouri River.
There are some things volunteers and residents can do to make sure they stay healthy and safe during the flood fight. Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health, along with the Department of Health, offers the following tips:
• When sandbagging, make sure to take breaks on a regular basis. Over-exertion can lead to health emergencies, including heart attacks. Take a break in the shade or an air-conditioned vehicle to help avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you see someone who looks overly exhausted, remind them that it's a good idea to take a break.
• To avoid back injuries, use safe-lifting techniques (lift with your legs, not with your back)
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
• If you are injured, wash the wound with soapy water and seek medical care if needed. Make sure your tetanus vaccination is up to date (within 10 years).
• Wash your hands before you eat and drink, or use a hand sanitizer.
• Wear sunscreen to protect against sunburns and always wear mosquito spray to avoid being infected with West Nile virus.
• Take precautions when cleaning areas that contain mice droppings, nests or dead mice.
• Never use an electric generator, or other gas-powered equipment or tools indoors because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Always wear lifejackets when using watercrafts for flood-related work.
• As families and friends are busy with flood-related activities, it is important that children are properly supervised in a safe area.