The frequency of the rains prevented thorough drying out of outdoors surfaces, encouraging the growth of mildew. Flood waters often contain high levels of bacteria, which is why disinfecting surfaces that have come in contact with flood waters is so important. Disinfecting contaminated surfaces Disinfect floors, walls, and counters that may have been contaminated by flood waters. Most hard surfaces, painted or stained, are resistant to the effects of bleach. Use either of the above solutions for dishes, glass, and plasticware.
Guidelines Remove loose dirt and debris.
Wash down area with the solution. Keep wet for 2 minutes and rinse. Bleach eliminates odors, kills germs. A stronger solution is one part bleach to three to five parts water. Either of these solutions will also kill mold, also called mildew.