Flood Cleanup Infographic
This downloadable and printable PDF resource provides information on how to clean up after a flood and how to prevent indoor air problems with helpful illustrations. It is available in several languages as a color version and grayscale version.
Color Version
![image of flood cleanup infographic that illustrates tips for cleanup after a flood](/https/www.epa.gov/system/files/styles/medium/private/images/2022-09/EPA_Flood-Cleanup-Graphic.jpg?itok=TKqF6PEv)
Grayscale Version
![Flood Cleanup Infographic-Grayscale](/https/www.epa.gov/system/files/styles/medium/private/images/2022-09/EPA_Flood-Cleanup-Graphic-Grayscale.jpg?itok=pPVVHqID)
Available in these languages:
Text Version of the Infographic
Flood Cleanup: Tips for a Healthy Home
Flood Water Can Make the Air in Your Home Unhealthy
Flood waters can carry sewage and other harmful substances. After a flood, standing water and wet materials can become a breeding ground for viruses, bacteria and mold.
Children, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic breathing problems like asthma should not take part in flood cleanup.
- Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.
- Operate portable generators safely. If you lose power, a portable generator can be used for temporary power. Only use generators outside and at least 20 feet away from buildings.
Wear personal protective equipment when you clean up:
-
Goggles
- N-95 respirator
- Long Sleeves
- Protective gloves
- Long pants
- Boots or work shoes
Clean and dry your home and everything in it within 24 to 48 hours, if you can.
- Clean hard surfaces with detergent and water. Do not mix cleaning products together or add bleach to other chemicals. Throw away anything that cannot be cleaned and dried.
- While cleaning, ventilate and dry your home by using fans and dehumidifiers and by opening doors and windows, if possible. If you already can see mold, do not use fans because fans may spread the mold.
This job may be too difficult or dangerous for you.
It may be best to get help from experienced and qualified professionals if you can.