As the flood waters begin to recede, many residents have begun the process of clean up and repair to their homes and communities. Linn County Public Health would like to offer guidelines that can help protect the health and safety of residents and workers during flood recovery.
Avoid preventable injuries:
• People with breathing problems like asthma or who have weakened immune systems should stay away from moldy sites. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
• Check visually for loose power lines. If you suspect loose power lines or smell potential gas leaks, call your utility company or emergency responders.
• Make sure the electricity and gas are turned off if you have standing water. Contact your local utility to have gas and electric lines turned off if standing water is present. Electric shock is a preventable injury. Never turn power on or off yourself or use an electric tool or appliance while standing in water.
• Individuals who must walk in flood water should wear sturdy shoes. Remember that sharp objects can penetrate rubber boots. Injuries to the feet and hands are the most common during flood clean up. Flood waters may contain and leave behind nails, boards, and other sharp objects. Seek care from a medical provider if injured during flood clean-up.
• Look for sagging ceilings or floors or other structural problems. Watch out for wet, muddy, or slippery floors.
As residents return to their homes to restore and recover damaged material LCPH reminds workers to use safe work practices
• If your home has been flooded and been closed up for several days, presume your home is contaminated with mold and sewage. Items that have been exposed to flood water should be handled as contaminated.
o Wear protective clothing to protect your eyes, nose, mouth, and skin
o Remove standing water and wet materials
o Open windows and doors to air out and dry surfaces as mold can grow within 24-48 hours, continue to vent and dry throughout the cleaning process and monitor for new mold growth
o Remove porous moldy material that cannot be cleaned, clean & disinfect other surfaces
o Restore only when surfaces are dry to avoid hidden problems later
• Electrical equipment with motors that have been exposed to flood waters should be inspected prior to use. Contact your insurance company regarding questions about coverage for replacement or repair.
• Moisture meters are available at Linn County Public Health to test wood substrate and framing for moisture prior to restoration. To check availability, call 319-892-6000.
For more information regarding flood recovery for your home, please check out the resources at: http://www.linncounty.org/818/Flood-Response-and-Recovery. Printed materials are available at Linn County Public Health.
###