Mold is a major health risk that shouldn't be taken lightly. Beware; mold and mildew will develop quickly.  In just 24-48 hours of water exposure surfaces and materials can become contaminated with mold. 

In addition to heavily flooded areas, mold may pop up in some obvious household places including damp basements and moist areas resulting from plumbing problems or other leaks. 

The bad news is mold will CONTINUE to feed on moisture and grow until the proper steps are taken to eliminate the source of moisture and effectively deal with the problem.

The good news is that with a little elbow grease you can eradicate mold. Here's a list of materials you'll need to kill mold and mildew. The items needed are inexpensive and readily available at most grocery and hardware stores. 

Materials you'll need

-	Bucket and trash bags
-	Scrub brush, sponges and rags
-	Latex gloves and mask
-	Broom, mop and wet-dry vacuum
-	Non-ammonia soap or commercial cleaner
-	Liquid bleach solution

After putting on your mask and gloves, wash hard non-porous materials with non-ammonia detergent and hot water.  Use a stiff brush on rough surfaces such as concrete. 

Use your wet-dry vacuum to remove residue, then wash areas or items with your bleach solution.  Let the bleach solution remain on the surfaces for at least 10 minutes before rinsing with clean water and allowing to dry. 

On porous materials such as upholstered furniture, use extra caution when deciding whether to clean or discard the item.  If the item has been wet for more than 48 hours it should be discarded. When in doubt throw it out!

Remember, ALWAYS wear your mask and gloves while cleaning, NEVER mix ammonia with bleach and exercise EXTREME caution when discarding items contaminated with mold. 

To avoid serious health problems resulting from mold exposure keep things clean, dry, and act fast before mold has a chance to make your life miserable! 

For more information about flood preparation and recovery please visit  www.floodsmart.gov.