After a flood, experts at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service say there are several things you can do to protect the health and well-being of your family and restore your property.
Joyce Cavanagh, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension Specialist in Family Development and Resource Management, Bryan-College Station, said the Texas Extension Disaster Education Network , Texas EDEN, has a lot of information about flood recovery.
The information available on the EDEN website includes tips and advice on cleaning and drying homes that have been damaged by floods, supplies of food and water, safety precautions after floods, and other topics.
"The website also has instructional videos on flood recovery," said Cavanagh.
Contact the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Library for more information. There are many free documents available to download and print from this website, including safety tips for flood recovery, mold control, basic first aid, important document maintenance, and post-disaster considerations for seniors.
Top priority for safety in flooded areas
Monty Dozier, Ph.D., director of the Disaster Recovery and Assistance Program at AgriLife Extension , Bryan-College Station, said safety is of the utmost importance when returning to flood-affected areas.
"Listen to the local news or NOAA weather radio for updates and don't return home until authorities say it's safe to do so," Dozier said. Remember, snakes and pests may have taken refuge in and around your home. When you return to your home or business, it is best to wear protective clothing, including a hat or cap, long sleeves, long pants, rubber gloves, and boots. ""
He also recommended throwing away items that cannot be cleaned or disinfected, such as carpets, mattresses, pillows, and pillows.
"Returnees must also beware of possible structural or electrical damage and gas lines, as well as possible contamination from floods," he said . "If equipment has been flooded, don't use it until it's checked to make sure it's safe."
He also recommended taking photos and videos of damage to the house and its contents inside and out for insurance purposes.
"Unfortunately, most insurance companies don't pay extra damage after a disaster, so homeowners are responsible for temporary repairs to prevent further damage," said Dozier.
Dry your house
Dozier noted that mold was another potential flood-related health risk.
"There are steps you can take to keep mold from growing," he said. "This includes disposing of wet and unrecoverable items, cleaning and drying wet recoverable items as soon as possible, and ensuring that the wet areas are well ventilated. You can use an air conditioner and fan to dry wet items. And if you see or smell mold, clean the area with a solution of 1 cup household bleach in 1 gallon of water as a short-term remedy. ""
The key to preventing mold growth is cleaning, sanitizing, and drying the damaged area. If the problem persists, contact a reputable service that specializes in mold removal. Companies providing molding services must be licensed and / or registered in the state of Texas.
Taking the first steps to dry your home can also help reduce the risk and damage they cause, Dozier said.
"Open up the flooded walls, even if they appear to be in good shape, and get the water out of the house ASAP," he said. "Ventilate the house by opening doors and windows and make drying easier with dehumidifiers and fans.
"Cross the ventilation by placing a fan in a window or on the floor. Dispose of flooded drywall or wet fiber insulation. And leave the walls open until completely dry. Drying time can vary from a few weeks to a month depending on weather conditions, moisture levels, and other variables. ""
When in doubt, throw it away
Cavanagh suggested getting rid of any food or medication that has or may have come in contact with the water or mud of the flood.
He added that even with potentially contaminated water, owners shouldn't take any chances.
"Don't drink the water in or near an area that you know has been flooded," he said. "Floods can easily contaminate drinking water sources. So it is best to drink bottled water or water from a source that you know is safe until you reach your regular supply. The water has been tested and found to be safe. "
"You also want damage to the sewer system to be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further risks to your health or that of your family," said Cavanagh.
Spread of mosquitoes after a flood
Dozier also noted that mosquito populations often explode after a flood, and the diseases they carry pose another health risk.
"Empty or empty the water to clear up the egg-laying sites and get rid of any spots where water can pool and hold back, especially if there is organic matter like soil or leaves," he said. "If the water doesn't spill or drain, use a larvicide."
He noted that a nebulizer can also be helpful for temporary relief, but a DEET-based repellent is best used.
"For your personal safety, if you wear long sleeves, long pants, and blankets while you remove dirt, dry your home, and clean, they'll also protect you from mosquitos," he said.
Dozier said that flood recovery can be a slow and frustrating process that requires a lot of patience and perseverance.
"It is also extremely important that those affected by the floods remember to take the time to look after themselves and their belongings," he said.
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