Assess Damage and Hazards from Molds and Contaminated Water Before Returning to Flood--Damaged Homes 

Release Date: May 18, 2001
Release Number: 1367-14

» More Information on Iowa Severe Storms & Flooding

Davenport, IA -- Disaster officials of both the Iowa Emergency Management Division (IEMD) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) warn owners of flood-damaged homes to proceed cautiously and prepare carefully before returning to their homes.

Homeowners should assume that anything touched by floodwater is contaminated. Mud left by floodwater can contain chemicals from sources as varied as your garden chemicals to a neighbor's propane tank to the oven cleaner you stored in the kitchen.

In addition, homes that have flood damage are likely to have damp areas where molds, mildews and other fungal organisms thrive. Since molds and related organisms may cause respiratory problems, it is important to use proper procedures in cleaning flood-damaged homes. A combination of household bleach and soap or detergent can be used to wash down walls, floors and other mold-contaminated areas. This will eliminate fungal problems and their inherent dangers. Follow directions on containers and take particular note of warnings.

Before beginning to work on flooded homes, make sure the electricity is turned off. Unplug appliances and lamps. Remove light bulbs and remove the cover plates of wall switches and outlets that got wet. If local building inspection code allows you to disconnect wiring from switches and outlets, do so and throw away the switches and outlets. If your building inspector says that you cannot disconnect the wiring, pull them forward, away from the wall, and leave them connected.

Remove as much mud as possible. Plan to disinfect the basement at a later date. Once you've checked the water system for leaks, hose down the inside of the house and its contents. It's best to use an attachment that sprays soap to wash and rinse the walls, floors, furniture, sockets, electrical boxes and other major items that got muddy.

Remove heating and cooling registers and ducts, then hose the ducts to prevent contamination blowing through the ducts at a later date. After hosing duct work, wash with a disinfectant or sanitizer that is quarternary, phenolic or pine-oil based. If ducts are in slab or otherwise inaccessible, have them cleaned professionally.

Don't let floodwater set for long. Use a mop, squeegee or wet/dry vacuum cleaner to remove standing water. Always wash your hands with soap and clean water after working in the area.

For more information, the publication "Repairing Your Flooded Home" (FEMA-234) is available. For a free copy call 1-800-480-2520 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. EST)

All homeowners, renters and business owners affected by the severe storms and flooding are urged to call the toll-free registration number, 1-800-462-9029, to apply for assistance. People with hearing or speech impairments can call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585 for assistance. Applications can be made between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Last Modified: Monday, 27-Oct-2003 10:32:04