08/17/2026
PLEASE READ & SHARE: Official Health Warning from Fayette County Emergency Management
Fayette County Emergency Management issued an advisory for all residents dealing with flood cleanup, and the reality of what’s in local basements and yards is serious:
Floodwater mixed with sewage is hazardous. It carries dangerous bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that can cause severe illness.
If you are out gutting rooms, hauling mud, or helping neighbors, take these precautions:
Protect your skin and open wounds: Wear waterproof boots, heavy gloves, and protective gear. Wash thoroughly with clean water and soap after any contact.
Keep kids and pets completely out of floodwater: Do not let children play in standing puddles or yard runoff.
Do not drink or use well water: If your property flooded, do not drink, cook, or brush your teeth with well water until it has been tested and cleared by officials.
Toss contaminated food and items: Throw away any food, utensils, or porous containers that touched floodwater.
Ventilate while using bleach: When scrubbing with disinfectants like household bleach, open all windows, keep fresh air moving, and wear a mask and goggles to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
Watch for illness: If anyone exposed develops a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or skin rashes, seek medical attention immediately.
Tag folks who are working outside today and share this across our local pages so everyone gets their homes cleaned up without landing in the clinic.
