Central District Health encourages residents who live in areas with the potential for flooding to stay alert and up-to-date on river conditions and weather changes that may impact river flows.

Flooding can have immediate and serious impacts on wells and septic systems that may require discontinued use, treatment and testing of water. Additionally, flood waters can pose risks for infectious disease, chemical hazards and injury.

Similarly, even a few inches of slope movement from a landslide can disrupt septic, sewer and water lines, and crack foundations, severely damaging or destroying your home.

Below are links to sites that provide information on how to prepare for and respond to flood and landslide events in your area.

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Flooding Resources

Flooding can have immediate and serious impacts on wells and septic systems that may require discontinued use, treatment and testing of water. Additionally, flood waters can pose risks for infectious disease, chemical hazards and injury. Taking precautions can help you avoid possible health risks during a flood. 

Before & During a Flood:

• Pre-Evacuation Check List
• During and After a Flood - Septic, Water & Food Frequently Asked Questions
• Flooding Fact Sheet - Before, During & After Tips
• Health Precautions for Flooded Areas - Adapted from No. Dakota Public Health
• ACCEM – Ada City-County Emergency Management
• FEMA – Floods
• Public Health Preparedness – CDH
• CDC – Emergency Preparedness and Response – Floods
• American Red Cross - Before a Flood Preparation
• NASD – Flood Preparedness and Response for Families

After a Flood:

• American Red Cross - After a Flood
• Returning to Your Home After a Flood - Adapted from CDC
• Preventing Illness After a Disaster (links to CDC)
• EPA – Private Wells – What to do after a flood
• EPA – Septic Systems – What to do after a flood
• Mold Clean Up After a Flood
• Proper Sewage Clean Up Procedures Flyer
• NASD – Flooded Private Sewage Systems: Safety, Sanitation And Clean-Up Concerns
• EPA – Flood Clean Up Around Your Home
• NASD – Flood-Damaged Furniture & Appliances – Deciding What To Salvage & Tips On Reconditioning
• NASD – Electrical Systems and Appliances: General Clean-Up and What to Do Before the Electrician Arrives

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Landslides

A landslide is the downward slope movement of rock, soil, or debris. Debris flow, earth flow, rock fall, mudflow, mudslide, slide, and slump are also terms for landslide.

Landslides occur in every state and U.S. territory. Any area composed of very weak or fractured materials resting on a steep slope can and will likely experience landslides.

Landslides can take human life. However, even a few inches of slope movement can disrupt septic, sewer and water lines, and crack foundations, severely damaging or destroying your home.

• A Homeowner's Guide to Landslides - originally written for WA & Oregon residents, but includes valuable information for all
• Landslides / Debris Flows / Mudslides - you will be routed to the U.S. Geological Survey website

Contact

Environmental Health Department
208-327-7499
Additional Contacts