What to know about mold and cleanup safety after the flood

As cleanup continues across Kerr County, health officials warn that mold is one of the most significant risks facing residents and business owners returning to flood-damaged homes and buildings — and not everyone should be doing that cleanup themselves.

Who shouldn’t clean up mold

According to the CDC, several groups should avoid entering or cleaning mold-damaged spaces entirely:

• People with asthma or other breathing conditions — mold can worsen asthma symptoms
• People with weakened immune systems, including those undergoing cancer treatment or taking immune-suppressing medications — they face a higher risk of serious illness from mold exposure
• Children

What to wear

For those who can safely do cleanup, the CDC, EPA, FEMA and NIH jointly recommend, at minimum:

• An N-95 respirator (NIOSH-approved) — if you’ll be working around mold for an extended period, a half- or full-face respirator is recommended instead
• Goggles or safety glasses with side shields
• Protective gloves
• Rubber boots, and rubber gloves specifically if sewage is involved

How to clean safely

• Never use bleach in a closed space — open windows and doors first for ventilation
• To make a cleaning solution, mix 1 cup of household bleach with 1 gallon of water
• Remove and discard drywall and insulation contaminated by sewage or floodwater — these generally can’t be cleaned and salvaged
• Thoroughly clean all wet items and hard surfaces — flooring, concrete, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, appliances and plumbing fixtures — with hot water and detergent
• Fix any leaks in roofs, walls or plumbing as soon as possible, since mold needs moisture to grow and will return if the source isn’t addressed
• Work in teams of at least two when moving heavy or bulky items, and avoid lifting more than 50 pounds per person
• Wash all clothing worn during cleanup separately, in hot water
• Seek medical attention immediately if you become sick or injured during cleanup

For volunteers and workers specifically

NIOSH’s flood cleanup guidance adds a few worker-specific notes: wear electrically insulated, watertight boots with steel shanks and toes — not tennis shoes or sneakers, which won’t prevent punctures or protect against contamination. Be alert for hazards hidden under floodwater or debris, including drainage openings, ground erosion, and displaced wildlife such as snakes.

Where to find more information

The EPA, HUD, FEMA, NIH and CDC jointly publish a “Homeowner’s and Renter’s Guide to Mold Cleanup After Disasters,” available in English and Spanish, with more detailed room-by-room guidance.