Elite Water Damage and Restoration

Water Damage, Water Damage Cleanup, Water Removal

Flood Cleanup: Avoiding Indoor Air Quality Problems

by EPA.gov
Introduction
During a flood and water damage cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home
or office may appear to be the least of your problems.
However, failure to remove contaminated materials and to
reduce moisture and humidity can present serious longterm
health risks. Standing water and wet materials are a
breeding ground for microorganisms, such as viruses,
bacteria, and mold. They can cause disease, trigger
allergic reactions, and continue to damage materials long
after the flood.
This fact sheet discusses problems caused by microbial
growth, as well as other potential effects of flooding, on
long-term indoor air quality and the steps you can take to
lessen these effects. Although the information contained
here emphasizes residential flood cleanup, it is also
applicable to other types of buildings.
Prepare for Cleanup
Read Repairing Your Flooded Home
www.redcross.org/services/disaster/0,1082,0_570_,00.htm
l prepared by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency and the American Red Cross. The booklet
discusses flood safety issues and can save your life. The
booklet also contains detailed information on proper
methods for cleaning up your home. You should also
consult the wealth of information on the FEMA, CDC, and
The American Lung Association sites.