Flood Clean-Up

Flood Clean-Up

After a flood, sewage and other unsafe materials may be inside and around your home. Proper clean-up after a flood will keep you and your family safe.

Always wash your hands after cleaning flood-affected items.

Cleaning Tips:

  • Keep children and pets away from the area until it is properly cleaned

  • Always wear rubber gloves, rubber boots, long pants, goggles and an N-95 respirator when cleaning flood-affected areas

  • Help the drying process by turning on fans, air conditioning and dehumidifiers

  • Clean, then disinfect hard surfaces with a mixture made with 1 cup bleach in 5 gallons of water OR 1 cap-full of bleach in 1 gallon of water

    • Hard surfaces can include flooring, concrete, metal furniture, wood, moldings, countertops, sinks and plumbing fixtures

    • Note: bleach that is labeled “color-safe” does not contain chlorine and will not clean items

    • Follow manufacturer’s directions for cleaning appliances

  • To disinfect toys, soak them in a mixture made with 1 cup bleach in 5 gallons of water

    • Let toys air dry

  • Always wash your hands after cleaning flood-affected items

When in doubt, throw it out.

Any item that cannot be cleaned should be thrown away.  Some things that cannot be cleaned include:

  • Food

  • Mattresses

  • Carpets and carpet padding

  • Rugs

  • Cloth furniture

  • Make-Up

  • Stuffed animals

  • Bedding

  • Foam or rubber items and toys

  • Paper products

  • Any drywall or insulation within a foot of the waterline

Mold can grow after an area has been wet for 2 or more days. Wearing safety gear will keep you safe from contact with mold. Use an N-95 respirator and keep windows and doors open to avoid breathing in mold.

Water coming in to your faucets and appliances may not be safe to use. Until your water is tested and is found to be safe, do not use it. Always use clean water or bring your items elsewhere to clean them.

Children should not be allowed to play in or around flood waters. Flood water can contain sharp objects that can lead to injuries. Do not allow children to play with toys that were exposed to flood waters if they have not been properly cleaned.

If you are injured or become sick, seek medical help.

Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/floodsafety.html

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