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Keeping children safe

  • Do not allow children to play in floodwater areas – they won’t know how deep the water is and there may be hidden dangers
  • Wash children’s hands frequently and always before meals
  • Parents with infants that are unwell with diarrhoea and vomiting should seek medical advice
  • Do not let young children play on affected paved or concreted areas until they have been cleaned. Sunlight and soil help destroy harmful bacteria so it is usually safe for children to play on grass a week or so after the floodwater has gone.
  • Wash floodwater-contaminated toys with hot water and detergent. Soft toys can be put in a hot (60°C) machine wash.