Flood Cleanup Infographic

This downloadable and printable PDF resource provides information on how to clean up after a flood and how to prevent indoor air problems with helpful illustrations. It is available as a color version and grayscale version.

• Download the color version (PDF - 3.1kb)
• Download the grayscale version (PDF - 3.2kb)
• Text version of the infographic

---

---

Text Version of the Infographic 

Flood Cleanup: Tips for a Healthy Home

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. 

• 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:

• Goggles

• N-95 respirator
• Long Sleeves 
• Protective gloves 
• Long pants 
• Boots or work shoes

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

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