What to Do After a Flood

• Before re-entering a building, check for structural damage. Make sure it is not in danger of collapsing. Turn off any outside gas lines at the meter or tank, and let the building air out for several minutes to remove foul odors or escaping gas.
• Watch for electrical shorts or live wires before turning off the main power switch. Do not turn on any lights or appliances until an electrician has checked the system for short circuits.
• Throw out fresh food and previously opened medicines that have come in contact with floodwaters.
• If your water service was disrupted, run the tap for at least 30 seconds and until the water runs cold and clear. Replace all ice machine filters and beverage dispenser filters, and flush all water lines for five minutes.

Assessing and Repairing Damage

• When surveying flood damage in a building lookout for mold, any newly formed cracks along the wall, and signs of foundation damage including bulging walls.
• Heavy flooding can have a significant effect on the structural stability of outdoor structures such as decks, porches, and retaining walls. Take extra precautions near these outdoor structures, due to the potential for collapse.
• Flooding can also cause the soil around buildings to shift. Be cautious of sinkholes forming on your property, especially near septic systems. Avoid areas around large trees if the surrounding soil is soft.
• If the building is not safe to occupy, the owners should seek alternative housing arrangements while repairs are made. 
• Owners should take pictures of all damage and flood impacts and keep receipts for all repairs if they intend to apply for disaster assistance or to make an insurance claim.
• Extensive repair work in a building may require the services of a registered contractor as well as East Baton Rouge Parish Department of Development-issued work permits. Electrical wiring repairs will require the services of a licensed electrician. Gas plumbing system repairs will require the services of a licensed plumber. Check the license status of these construction professionals online with the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors 

Cleaning After a Flood

• Dry all areas and items quickly and thoroughly.
• Dry clean or wash and dry all clothing and other home items. Clean floors, furniture, and other surfaces with detergent and water.
• Stay out of deep water. Extensive flooding damage may require clean-up and restoration by professionals.
• Keep children, pets, and people with compromised immune systems away until the area has been cleaned and disinfected.
• Use protective eyewear and waterproof gloves and boots when cleaning or coming in contact with sewage.
• Remove standing shallow water. Make sure to dry all objects and surfaces thoroughly to avoid mold growth.
• Deep water and extensive flood damage may require professional cleanup and restoration.
• Throw away any food (including packaged food) that may have been touched by sewage water.
• Use soap and water to clean surfaces contaminated with sewage.
• To disinfect, wipe surfaces with a bleach solution (half a cup of bleach in one gallon of water). Non-bleach sanitizers can also be used.
• WARNING: Never mix bleach with ammonia or detergents containing ammonia products since dangerous gases may be created. Bleach can damage some materials, so use caution.
• Wash clothes, bedding, and other fabrics contaminated with sewage with detergent and water. Dry them thoroughly. Dry clean items that cannot be washed.
• After you finish cleaning, disinfect your boots and gloves with a solution of one-half cup of household bleach in one gallon of water. Rinse with clear water and allow the boots and gloves to air dry.

Prevent Mold Growth

• Remove all wet, porous materials.
• Fix leaks or report them to your building owner as soon as possible.
• Use dehumidifiers if available. If the power is out, open windows for ventilation.

Learn more about  EPA - Mold