Be sure to protect yourself as you clear out debris and repair damage to your home or property. FEMA’s informational booklet Repairing Your Flooded Home (PDF) offers safety tips and step-by-step advice as you clean up and rebuild.
PPE
Be sure to wear personal protective equipment. This may include waterproof boots, safety googles, long sleeves, long pants, and an N95 respirator mask or face covering.
Mold
Although mold can start growing within 24 hours after water enters your home, it often takes some time before it’s easily detectable. At the same time, mold exposure can lead to breathing problems or allergic reactions.
Be on the alert for signs of mold or symptoms of exposure, and be sure to protect yourself while you’re cleaning. Here are a few helpful resources:
Indoor Air Quality
Flood water can make the air in your home unhealthy, and other substances could get into the air as you clean up. See the EPA handout Flood clean-up: Protecting indoor air quality (PDF) to stay safe in your home.