Health & safety tips
When returning to a home that’s been flooded, be aware that your house may be contaminated with mold or sewage, which can cause health risks for your family.
Below are FEMA's tips to stay safe after a flood:
- Listen to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
- Avoid driving, except in emergencies.
- Snakes and other animals may be in your house. Wear heavy gloves and boots during clean up.
- 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.
- Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain dangerous debris and be contaminated. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
- Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows
Additional health and safety tips can be found on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website: Reentering Your Flooded Home
Before returning to a flooded building, review the below guidance documents:
- ABC's to returning to flooded buildings
- Homeowner's and renter's guide to mold cleanup after disasters
- Clean up safely after a disaster