Prompt Cleanup Of Mold And Mildew Is Essential
Release Date: June 7, 2006
Release Number: 1644-009
» More Information on Maine Severe Storms and Flooding
NEWINGTON, N.H. -- Maine residents whose homes have been water damaged as a result of the heavy rains that began May 13 may find themselves in the position of facing the growth of mold and mildew.
Disaster recovery specialists caution that mold and mildew can begin to grow within 24 hours after a flood and occur throughout the house, including the attic, basement and crawl spaces. The health effects can be severe, especially for those with pre-existing conditions such as allergies and asthma.
All materials are likely to become moldy if they are wet for long enough. The secret to preventing problems is cleaning, drying and disinfecting all wet surfaces as soon as possible by promptly using disinfectants.
Specialists offer the following suggestions to ensure safe, effective cleanup:
- Have professionals check heating/cooling ducts and wall insulation for mold growth.
- Wash all items that came in contact with floodwaters with a chlorine bleach solution. Open windows for ventilation and wear boots and rubber gloves. Use disinfectant in full strength and keep it on surfaces for 15 minutes.
- Select and use disinfectants carefully, as most are toxic to humans as well as to molds.
- Wipe surfaces that have not been directly involved with a solution of one part bleach/four parts water to reduce contamination.
- Rinse the skin quickly and well if accidental contact takes place.
- Remember chlorine bleach is no longer effective when the chlorine smell disappears.
Materials that cannot be cleaned, such as sheetrock, fiberglass and cellulose insulation, should be discarded. Remember to remove sheetrock and other porous wallboards at least 12 inches above the visible water line left by the flood. Then, clean wall studs, where wallboard has been removed, and allow the area to dry completely.
Residents and business owners in the declared county of York who sustained damage as a result of the May flooding are urged to begin the application process for federal and state assistance immediately possible by calling 1-800-621-FEMA or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The lines are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week until further notice.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 06-Dec-2006 12:01:10