Remember to disinfect after flood damage

Many residents suffered expensive, and even tragic losses, and weather forecasts suggest probable chances of more rain. Some experienced severe flooding inside their homes. It is important to remember that flood water contains contaminants and needs to be cleaned up properly.
Here are some tips to tackle the task systematically and to make provisional arrangements just in case it happens again.
Take note that if you need to claim for any damages from your insurance company, they should be listed and photographed or videotaped for proof as you clean.
Disconnect or unplug and move any electronic appliances to a dry area
Ideally this should be done as the flood is taking place, but electrical items should definitely be moved first before cleaning, especially if water has risen above the electrical outlets. Also move any carpets.

Get rid of water and disinfect surfaces
This step is performed through old fashioned manual labour. Mop and drain all of the water. A wet or dry vacuum can be used. Be very sure to only use plug outlets that are completely dry. Scrub surfaces with hot water and a heavy-duty cleaner. Disinfect with a solution of 1/4 cup chlorine bleach per 4 litres of water, or a product that is labeled as a disinfectant. This step is the most important in preventing mold growth.
Focus on the kitchen
If affected, soak glass, porcelain, china or even plastic dishes and kitchenware in a solution of 2 tablespoons of chlorine bleach per 4 litres of hot water for 10 minutes, then let it air-dry. Silverware, utensils, pots and pans should be soaked in boiling water. Bleach must not be used in this case. Cupboards and counters should be washed and rinsed before storing dishes.

Your furniture, bedding and clothes
Furniture should be left to dry properly before cleaning. Put your clothes and linen in the washing machine or hand-wash them as per usual. Clean your furniture with appropriate products and make sure to let it dry properly. If mold and mildew have already advanced, first brush off objects outside to prevent scattering spores in the house. Preferably wear a protective mask to prevent breathing in mold spores.
If damaged, books, photographs and papers can be cleaned later. They should be dried carefully and stored in plastic bags in a frost-free freezer to protect them until you have time to clean or take them to a professional.

Carpeting
Clean and dry your rugs and carpets as soon as possible. If your carpets were under water for 24 hours or longer, or exposed to sewage contaminated floodwater, it should be discarded for health safety reasons. Otherwise, hose them outside and then use a disinfecting carpet cleaner or a solution of 2 tablespoons bleach to 4 litres water to work into spoiled spots with a broom. If the carpet cannot be removed, dry it as quickly as possible using a vacuum before cleaning.
Wood floors
Wooden floors should dry gradually. Instant drying could cause cracking or splitting. Remove a board here and there to reduce buckling caused by swelling.
Appliances
If your appliances have stained or got silt or gritty deposits, it will need to be serviced. Running appliances before being properly cleaned could cause serious damage. Professional cleaning is recommended for electronic appliances. The hard exterior can be hand cleaned. All metallic appliances that have been flooded should be properly grounded to prevent electric shock.
Electrical system
If your electrical system is damaged it must be shut off, repaired and inspected by an electrician before it can be turned back on. Wiring, even behind walls, must be dried out.
The same goes for damaged roofs, leaks or private sewage systems; they should be repaired by professionals.
Provision
If you are prone to be affected, it is advisable to not replace carpets and/or furniture until the forecasts for more flooding have expired. If possible, move your furniture to the walls or corners furthest away from doors and windows. Close your windows when leaving the house.
Sources: Floodsafety.com and Concrobium.com