The Danish Agency for Patient Safety warns of the risk of contact with sewage water during floods and emphasizes the importance of using protective gear. When heavy rain hits large parts of Denmark, as expected to happen on Saturday, the risk of floods increases significantly. Many municipalities are already preparing for this danger, and the Danish Agency for Patient Safety highlights a particular risk: sewage water. Sewage water can be extremely dangerous as it contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms from human feces and rats. Charlotte Hjort, head of unit at the Danish Agency for Patient Safety, warns that contact with sewage water can lead to serious infections and problems with the stomach, intestines, and respiratory organs.
If your sewer overflows and water enters your home, it is crucial to protect yourself with rubber boots and gloves before starting to remove the water. It is also important to avoid contact with the skin and ensure that the water does not come into contact with the eyes or mouth. After the flood, one should also be aware of their garden, where there may be remnants of sewage sludge. Although this usually does not pose a major health risk, it is still important to avoid contact with it. Therefore, the Danish Agency for Patient Safety advises that children do not play on the ground immediately after a flood. The contamination will naturally break down, but it can take several weeks or months.
One can actively contribute to reducing pollution by hosing down and watering the affected areas. During such activities, the Danish Agency for Patient Safety recommends the use of respiratory protection. This warning from the Danish Agency for Patient Safety emphasizes the importance of taking the necessary precautions to protect oneself and one’s family during and after floods.