Environmental Health Center

California Flood Recovery Scripts

This is an Environminute Disaster Advisory from the National Safety Council and the Governors Office of Emergency Services.

Mold and mildew are two problems that can put a damper on your household cleanup after the flood. You may be allergic to them. If you experience shortness of breath or congestion, consult your doctor. You should clean and dry items that show mold and bacterial growth, and you can also wash clothing, linens and small area rugs in hot, soapy water with a disinfectant or chlorine bleach. You probably will have to throw away mattresses, pillows, stuffed furniture and large carpets. To remove mildew from wood, mix five tablespoons of tri-sodium phosphate with a cup of liquid chlorine bleach and a gallon of water. And, have an expert check heating and cooling ducts and wall insulation for mold growth.

This Environminute Disaster Advisory was brought to you by the Teresa and H. John Heinz III Foundation.

For information on floods and indoor air issues, visit our Flood Waters Fact Sheet.

For more information on the Flood Recovery Radio PSAs, e-mail hochc@nsc.org.