State officials are issuing a series of cautions dealing with safety during flooding conditions.
Doug Goehring, state agricultural commissioner, advises any person with pesticides and fertilizers to take necessary steps to prevent contamination of and by flood.
"Pesticides and fertilizers pose a risk to human health and the environment if they are accidentally released through flooding," Goehring said in a press release. He encourages people with these materials, including anhydrous ammonia tanks, to move them to a safer location.
In addition, he said, livestock producers should move feed supplies to avoid contamination or loss.
The state electrical board also urges caution when beginning any cleanup operations.
"If your electrical wiring or equipment (breaker panel or fuse box) has been submerged in water, call the power supplier to turn off power immediately," a press release states. "Do not attempt to pump water from the building when the electricity is on because you will be subject to electrical shock."
Even if water has drained away naturally, corrosion and contaminants from the flooding can still make electrical equipment unsafe. It is urged that you contact a licensed electrician for assistance with any equipment that has been submerged in water.
- Dave Caldwel