After The Flood: Dealing With Mold

Flood Preparedness

As floodwaters in eastern South Dakota recede, area residents are faced with the task of cleanup.

The following fact sheet answers common questions about mold cleanup.

Is mold a hazard after water damage?

Molds can produce toxins. There is always a little mold everywhere " in the air and on many surfaces. However, when mold spores drop on places where there is excessive moisture, especially from flooding, they will attach themselves to many things and grow. Many building materials such as wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, and fabric (and others) support mold growth.

Who is most at risk in reacting to molds?

People who have allergies or those whose immune system is compromised are most at risk. Symptoms may include minor irritations such as nasal stuffiness or eye irritation but can also cause severe reactions such as fever, shortness of breath or infections.
How do I disinfect my home?

Fully disinfecting a home after it is flooded is critical, and it is even more important if small children will eventually be crawling on or touching affected surfaces. The CDC's flood-cleanup recommendations suggest that all walls, hard-surfaced floors and household surfaces be cleaned and disinfected with soap, water and bleach " 1 cup of bleach to 5 gallons of water. Most household cleaning products will do the job if used correctly. Look on the label for directions to see how much to use. Follow all directions and safety precautions. Ventilate the area while using any cleaning products.

Belongings that cannot be washed in hot water or dry cleaned, such as mattresses or upholstered furniture, should be air-dried in the sun and sprayed with disinfectant. Carpets should be steam-cleaned, and residents should wear boots and rubber gloves while cleaning. Some building materials such as drywall, paneling, carpet and some furniture that were damaged by prolonged exposure to moisture may have to be discarded. Not everything is going to be salvageable and capable of reuse.