Safety During a Flood Response

A flood response encompasses all the things that you, your community and the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) can do in response to a flood. Floods are dangerous, as is dealing with flood damage, so safety procedures are vital.

Flood Preparedness

• Being prepared before a flood is a vital part of a safe and effective flood response. You should stockpile emergency supplies, know evacuation routes and shelter locations and heed all flood warnings.

Safety After the Flood

• When you can return home, FEMA advises checking for downed power lines, gas leaks and structural damage before you enter any home or business. Do not enter any building if it is still flooded, if you can smell gas or fuel oil, or if authorities have declared it unsafe.

Safety in Structural Clean-up

• According to the Centers for Disease Control fact sheet on "Disaster Response Clean-up," before beginning flood damage repairs, you should have two fire extinguishers handy, and safety equipment, including hard hats, goggles, heavy gloves and dust masks. Also, wait for water to recede before operating electrical machinery.

Mold Clean-up Safety

• Cleaning up mold residue is vital in a flood response--the Environmental Protection Agency advises cleaning all hard surfaces in your home with hot water, bleach and laundry detergent. Mold exposure can cause serious, long-term health problems, so use rubber gloves, goggles and breathing masks during clean-up.

Electricity and Safety

• If any electrical circuits or equipment were flooded, the EPA recommends power be turned off at the main breaker or fuse box. Have an electrician check all lines before restoring power.

Preventing Infection

• To prevent infection during flood response clean-up, wash your hands thoroughly in hot water and anti-bacterial soap; wash all clothes worn during each clean-up in hot water, bleach and detergent.