Wear Protective Clothing During Flood Cleanup

People involved in cleanup after the flood, need to wear clothing that will protect them from contaminated water. Floodwater can contain raw sewage, viruses, bacteria, and pesticides.

It is important to take the following steps when working in flood damaged areas:

  • Check to make sure that tetanus shots are up-to-date. (Get a booster shot if you have not had a tetanus shot within the past 10 years. Some health departments recommend a booster within five years if you are working in floodwater.)
  • Wear waterproof boots, preferably high rubber boots.
  • Wear waterproof gloves—latex or neoprene coated, not leather or cotton (kitchen rubber/latex gloves will work).
  • Wear a facemask.
  • Avoid direct contact with water
  • Wash with an anti-bacterial soap (Dial, for example) after working in flood areas
  • Wash clothing in a detergent and disinfectant after working in flood areas. (Follow the manufacturer’s instructions).

Artyce Hedrick, Extension Specialist, Clothing