FLOOD CLEANUP:

TIPS FOR A HEALTHY HOME

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Flood Water Can Make the Air in Your Home Unhealthy

Flood waters can carry sewage and
other harmful substances. After
a flood, standing water and wet
materials can become a breeding
ground for viruses, bacteria and mold.

Children, pregnant people, and
people with weakened immune
systems or chronic breathing
problems like asthma should
not take part in flood cleanup.

A
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Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you
are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.

Operate portable generators safely. If you lose power, a portable generator can be used for
temporary power. Only use generators outside and at least 20 feet away from buildings.



Wear personal protective
equipment when you
clean up:

Clean and dry your home
and everything in it within
24 to 48 hours, if you can.

Goggles
N-95 respirator

Long sleeves

H

Clean hard surfaces with
detergent and water. Do
not mix cleaning products
together or add bleach to
other chemicals. Throw
away anything that cannot
be cleaned and dried.





.

Protective
gloves

Long pants

Boots or work
shoes

While cleaning, ventilate
and dry your home by using
fans and dehumidifiers
and by opening doors and
windows, if possible. If you
already can see mold, do
not use fans because fans
may spread the mold.

This job may be too difficult or dangerous for you.

A It may be best to get help from experienced and
~ qualified professionals, if you can.

Scan this QR code with your smartphone camera, or visit this link for more information:

www.eDa.gov/indoor-air-aualitv-iaa/resources-floocl-cleanup-and-indoor-air-aualitv

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