Ruth Ann Cooper, D.P.M

Spring and summer storms and flooding can be horrendous, often leaving massive clean-up efforts from the devastation and damage left by the storm.

After a storm has passed, one of the first things residents want to do is clear debris and return to a normal life. Storm victims don’t often realize the dangers still lurking beneath the water and rubble that can cause serious injury to feet and ankles.

Here are a few simple tips to avoid cuts, puncture wounds, broken bones and other foot injuries during storm and flood cleanup:

• Watch where you walk. Debris and murky floodwaters can conceal sharp objects like nails and broken glass. Be careful standing on unstable surfaces and piles of debris that can throw you off balance, causing ankle sprains or fractures.
  
• Wear appropriate shoe gear. Sturdy work boots are preferred. Do not go barefoot or wear open-toed footwear like sandals, to prevent injury and puncture wounds.
  
• Take precautions when cutting tree limbs. Heavy tree limbs can fall with enough force to break bones in the feet and ankles.
  
• Immediately treat cuts and puncture wounds. To help prevent infections, including bone infections, wash cuts and puncture wounds with clean water, apply a topical antibiotic and cover with a clean bandage. Puncture wounds require medical treatment within 24 hours to avoid infection and other complications from embedded foreign objects. Pieces of skin, sock and shoe can be forced into a wound during a puncture, as can dirt and debris from the object itself. Make an appointment with my office for diagnosis and treatment of your injury. A tetanus shot may be necessary.