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  1. Public Health
  2. Environmental Health
  3. Environmental Hazards
  4. Flood Resources

Flood Resources

flooded streetFlood waters can carry with them many contaminants that can pose health risks, such as sewage, fertilizer, manure, gas, and pesticides. It is important to stay out of flood waters if possible and clean up properly.


Safety

Staying Safe During Flooding, PHMDC


Proper Clean Up Resources

Flooded homes and businesses can lead to the growth of mold, which can cause health concerns. It is important to stay safe and healthy while cleaning up after a flood.

  • Properly Cleaning Up After Floods News Release
  • Mold Clean Up Toolkit,  WI Department of Health Services
  • Mold and Flooding:  Cleanup Tips and Guidance, PHMDC
  • Re-entering Your Home After a Flood, WI Department of Health Services
  • Wisconsin Flood Toolkit, Wi Department of Health Services
    • Cleaning and Sanitizing with Bleach After an Emergency
    • Mold Clean Up With Bleach
  • Storm Debris Management Guidance, Dane County

Private Well and Drinking Water Resources

If you live in a Dane County area that was recently flooded, your private well may be in danger of contamination from pollutants carried in floodwaters. If you suspect your drinking water is contaminated:

  1. Immediately stop drinking it or using it for cooking and preparing food.
  2. Switch to a known safe source such as a neighbor’s well you know is safe, a community water supply, or buy bottled water. If you can’t find a convenient source of safe water, boil your well water for one minute at a rolling boil before using it.
  3. Disinfect your well, or get your water tested to check for contamination.
    1. If your water tests positive for bacteria, your water is considered unsafe. Read Bacterial Contamination of Private Wells for more information, and do not consume the water unless boiled at a rolling boil for at least one minute.
    2. If your water tests negative for bacteria, consider the water safe to drink but re-test in another month.
  4. Learn more about how to protect your well from contamination in the future.
  • Recommendations for Private Wells Inundated by Flooding, WI Department of Natural Resources
  • Water Testing Information, PHMDC
  • Fixing Your Flooded Well Fact Sheet - WI Department of Health Services 

Food Safety Resources

A flood or the loss of power due to storms could jeopardize the safety of your food.

  • Food and Water Safety During Power Outages and Floods, U.S. Food & Drug Administration
  • Food Safety After a Flood, Factsheet. U.S. Food & Drug Administration

Disaster Helpline

Going through a natural disaster can lead to stress and depression. The Disaster Distress Helpline is a toll-free, confidential crisis support service.

  • Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TALKWITHUS to 66746.

Environmental Hazards

  • Environmental Spills & Complaints
  • Flood Resources
  • Indoor Air Hazards
  • Lead Poisoning
    • Drinking Water Testing
    • Paint & Varnish Lead Testing
    • Public Health Lead Services
  • Needle & Syringe Disposal
  • Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
    • PFAS Health Effects
    • PFAS Water Standards
    • PFAS News & Actions in Dane County
    • PFAS FAQs

Stay Informed About Flooding

  • Dane County Flooding Website
  • City of Madison Flooding Website
Public Health Madison & Dane County Logo

Public Health Madison & Dane County

Office Location & Hours

  • Main Phone: (608) 266-4821
  • Environmental Health Phone:
    (608) 242-6515
  • Fax: (608) 266-4858
  • WI Relay Service and Interpretation Services Available
  • Email Public Health
  • City of Madison, Wisconsin Logo
    City of Madison, Wisconsin
  • Dane County Logo
    County of Dane, Wisconsin

Healthy People. Healthy Places.

Public Health Services are available to all residents and visitors of Madison and Dane County. Citizenship is not a requirement. We provide services regardless of a person's race, color, gender/gender expression, ability, religion, sexual orientation or place of birth/place of residence.

Our Mission


Working with the community to enhance, protect, and promote the health of the environment and the well being of all people.


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