Q: What are some health concerns to be aware of after the flooding?
A: The Environmental Protection Agency, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has guidelines to avoid getting sick during the clean-up from flooding at http://www.epa.gov/region7. Additional information is available from the
Iowa Department of Public Health http://www.idph.state.ia.us/adper/flood.asp. Major issues include mold, contaminated flood water and the risk of tetanus associated with the clean-up process. If running water isn’t available for frequent hand washing, hand cleaners containing alcohol are recommended. At this time, nearly all drinking water in Iowa has been certified as safe to drink, but the flood waters remain hazardous. Iowans should be careful to wash thoroughly whenever they come into contact with flood waters.
Q: What needs to be done to handle mold?
A: Mold is a serious concern after flooding. Whatever has been wet for two days probably has mold growing on it, even if it can’t be seen. Air conditioning and heating and ventilation systems should not be turned on before inspection, and a professional might be needed to make sure mold isn’t spread throughout the home when systems are turned on. Basic N-95 masks are available at any local hardware store and can help filter out mold and dust from the air that you breathe. Wearing masks, goggles, rubber gloves and rubber boots when cleaning up moldy areas also can reduce health-related problems. Mold needs to be removed before children, older adults, pregnant women and anyone who is sick re-enters a home. Windows and doors should be opened before bleach is used to clean mold off countertops, floors, flatware and other hard objects. The experts recommend a cup of bleach in five gallons of water and never to mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners to avoid toxic fumes.
Q: What hazards are associated with flood water?
A: Flood water is extremely dirty, often filled with sewage, bacteria and chemicals. Car batteries that have been in or remain in flood water can be hazardous if they still contain an electrical charge. Avoid any acid that may have spilled from the battery. Police or fire departments should be contacted when propane tanks, both household and from a gas grill, are discovered as they are a major danger for fire or explosion. Any items made from cloth or that can’t be easily cleaned, and any food items that were in contact with flood water or in a bulging or open food container, should be thrown away.
Q: What can be done to minimize the risk of tetanus?
A: During clean-up a tetanus vaccination can be helpful. Check with your doctor to see if you are in need of a booster. Adults need a tetanus booster shot every 10 years. Being exposed to flood waters does not increase the risk for tetanus, but clean-up activities increase the risk of wounds.