The EPA flyers are intended to help hurricane survivors, who are rebuilding their communities and their lives, mitigate environmental and health hazards—from broken gas lines to mold and bacteria due to flooding. Yet much of the information would be equally useful to people recovering from other natural disasters, or even dealing with household damage from flooded basements, fallen trees or mudslides.
The flyers highlight possible hazardous situations residents may encounter during cleanup activities:
Returning to Homes and Businesses – All Hurricane Affected Residents
Cleanup activities following a hurricane can pose significant health and environmental challenges. People may be exposed to potentially life-threatening hazards such as leaking natural gas lines. The EPA warns residents that using unvented fuel-burning equipment indoors could result in carbon monoxide poisoning. During a flood cleanup, failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity may present serious long-term health risks from microorganisms, such as bacteria and mold.
Returning to Homes and Businesses – Louisiana Residents
Covers the same issues as the flyer above, but targeted specifically to residents of New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Cleaning Up After a Flood: Addressing Mold Problems
Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for mold and bacteria which can trigger allergic reactions and induce respiratory infections. Failure to remove contaminated materials and reduce moisture can present serious long-term health risks. Exposure to high levels of mold may also trigger an asthma attack in people who have asthma.
Wells – What To Do After the Flood
If you suspect that your well may be contaminated, the EPA advises that you contact your local or state health department or agriculture extension agent for specific advice on disinfecting your well. The suggestions offered in the flyer are intended to supplement flood precautions issued by state and local health authorities.
Drinking Water – Louisiana Residents
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita damaged drinking water facilities throughout Louisiana. People returning to those areas face potential health hazards from bacteria or other organisms, or dehydration from a lack of safe drinking water.
