Resources for dealing with flooded homes and avoiding/addressing potential indoor air quality problems
Flooded homes and businesses can become potent indoor air quality problems in
the short and long term. Indoor air pollutants of particular concern include
mold, carbon monoxide, harsh cleaning agents, and dusts associated with
demolition and rebuilding process. The following references may be useful in
identifying and minimizing potential indoor air hazards in flooded buildings.
Indoor Mold and Health
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/community/indoor-air/mold.htm
Carbon Monoxide and Portable Generators
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/community/indoor-air/carbon.htm
Flyer - Keep Your Generator Outside, Away and Dry! (233 KB PDF)
US Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Mold After a Disaster
Protect Yourself from Mold
Population-Specific Recommendations for Protection From Exposure to Mold in
Flooded Buildings, by Specific Activity and Risk Factor
Mold Prevention Strategies and Possible Health Effects in the Aftermath of
Hurricanes and Major Floods
NIOSH Interim Recommendations for the Cleaning and Remediation of
Flood-Contaminated HVAC Systems:
A Guide for Building Owners and Managers
US Environmental Protection Agency
Flood Cleanup and Indoor Air Quality
Flood Cleanup:
Avoiding Indoor Air Quality Problems - Fact Sheet
Children's Health in the Aftermath of Floods
American Red Cross
American Academy of Pediatrics
Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics, Pediatric Environmental
Health Specialty Units
Clinician Recommendations Regarding Return of Children to Areas Impacted by
Flooding and/or Hurricanes
Updated August 23, 2012
