EPA infographic: flood cleanup: Flood Cleanup: Protecting Indoor Air Quality

Reading notes

A2Z's reading notes on this document, in its order. They are not the document's own wording; check figures against the original before relying on them.

Core Message

Flood Cleanup: Tips for a Healthy Home

After flooding, quick and safe cleanup is essential to protect your health and prevent mold growth.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Flood Cleanup

Always wear PPE before entering a flooded area:

• Goggles — protect eyes from contaminated water splashes and mold spores
• N-95 respirator — filters mold spores and other airborne particles
• Long sleeves — protect skin from contaminated water and debris
• Rubber gloves — protect hands from contaminated materials and cleaning chemicals
• Long pants — protect legs from contaminated water and debris
• Rubber boots — waterproof footwear to protect feet

The 24–48 Hour Rule

Dry out your home within 24–48 hours to prevent mold growth.

Mold can begin growing on wet materials within 24–48 hours. To dry your home:

• Open windows and doors to increase air circulation (if outdoor air is less humid)
• Use fans to circulate air
• Use dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air
• Remove standing water with pumps or wet vacuums
• Remove wet carpets, rugs, and furniture that cannot be dried quickly

Cleaning Instructions

For surfaces that can be cleaned and kept:

1. Remove all mud and dirt — scrub with a stiff brush
2. Clean with soap and water — remove all visible dirt and contamination
3. Disinfect — use a bleach solution (no more than 1 cup of bleach per gallon of water) on hard non-porous surfaces
4. Rinse and dry — rinse with clean water and dry completely
5. Do not mix bleach with ammonia — this creates toxic fumes

Safety Warnings

Electrical Hazards

• Do not enter a flooded building if electricity is still on — electrocution risk
• Have a licensed electrician inspect electrical systems before turning power back on

Generator Safety

• Never run a generator indoors or in a garage — carbon monoxide poisoning risk
• Keep generators at least 20 feet away from windows and doors

Sewage Contamination

• Floodwaters often contain sewage and other contaminants
• Wash hands thoroughly after any contact with floodwater
• Do not allow children to play in floodwater or on flood-contaminated surfaces

Vulnerable Populations

Take extra precautions for:

• Children — more vulnerable to mold and contaminants; keep out of flooded areas
• Pregnant women — should avoid flood cleanup when possible
• Immunocompromised individuals — cancer patients, HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients
• People with asthma or respiratory conditions — mold can trigger severe reactions

These individuals should not participate in cleanup if possible, or should use additional PPE.

More Information

EPA Flood Cleanup Resources: www.epa.gov/flooded-homes

CDC Flood Safety: www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods