Public health advice issued for flooding clean-up

People were trapped in their homes and cars because of flooding

Guidance has been issued on the potential health risks of floodwater in Surrey.

Hundreds of residents were evacuated from their homes in Addlestone and Chertsey last week after Storm Henk led to heavy rain and flooding.

Although the water has subsided, Surrey County Council (SCC)'s director of public health warned that "ongoing health risks" remain.

Ruth Hutchinson said: "Floodwater can contain harmful pollutants or contaminants hazardous to human and animal health, for example from sewage."

These can lead to skin or gut infections through contact, she explained.

When cleaning up floods, SCC recommended wearing protective gear, washing hands after contact with floodwater and not turning on appliances until they have been checked by a technician.

The guidelines also said proper ventilation was crucial.

People struggling with their mental health after the flooding were advised to contact their health provider.