ABC27 WHTM Flood victims worry about mold

Flood victims worry about mold

If you had flood water in your home or basement, you're probably wondering and worrying about mold.

Experts say it can cause serious health issues, so it must be addressed.

To remove mold on hard surfaces, professionals say you should mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of water and use the solution to wipe things down. You can also use a wire brush on hard surfaces.

The solution must be used in a well-ventilated area and people handling it should wear rubber gloves.

Flood water can contain sewage and chemicals, so everything it touched should be tossed, including carpets and padding, furniture, drywall, tile, insulation, clothing, and food.

If you have sentimental items you want to save, there may be hope with the help of a restoration company.

"They'll be able to tell you what can be salvaged and what cannot be salvaged," said Michael McClurg of Service 1st Restoration. "Pretty much carpeting, drywall, that's a given and has to go. Other sentimental items, there are ways out there and methods that they can be dried and salvaged."

Experts also warn people not to use furnaces or air conditioners that were in flood water, because they could spread mold spores. You should have those appliances either serviced by a technician or replaced.