The Health Department is offering free water testing to residents whose wells are affected by flood waters. You can pick up sterile bottles to be filled and returned for analysis, and obtain information about disinfecting wells at the Lake County Central Permit Facility, 500 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, or at selected Township and Village offices in the County (check with yours).  The Department is urging residents on private wells to have their water tested after the flood waters have receded.  Here are some additional recommendations:

*    Anyone who has been exposed to the flood waters and has not had a tetanus shot within the last 10 years, or can't remember when they last had a tetanus shot, should obtain one from their health care provider.

*    Prevent children and pets from playing in or drinking contaminated flood waters left in puddles or flooded areas. This may result in illness.  Be extremely careful about possible dislodged manhole covers, and the whirlpool or suction effect if water is draining.

*    Although disease outbreaks are rare after flooding, flood water can contain organisms that may cause disease.  If you are in a flood area and become ill, report to your family physician. Symptoms to watch for include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, muscle aches and fevers.

*    Wash hands and scrub fingernails thoroughly with soap and safe water after working in flooded areas.  This is especially true before eating or drinking.

Do not hesitate to ask any questions if you have any doubts about the safety of any food, water or conditions around your home.  Call Environmental Health Services of the Lake County Health Department at: (847) 377-8020.  Office hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 pm.