Efficiency Vermont Webinar Flood Victims of Safe Clean Energy Efficiency and More

NEWPORT CITY -As the unusually wet summer continues to pound the state with rain, many residential home owners have to contend with flooded basements, mold, damaged walls and damaged heating, cooling and HVAC systems.

Efficiency Vermont hosted a webinar last Thursday to offer tips and to respond to any questions about how to safely clean a damaged home. In addition to advice, Efficiency Vermont has rebates for work or installations that make homes more resistant to flooding and/or more energy efficient.

Many basements flooded with water as rivers toppled the banks and spread across floodplains. To deal with the flood damage homeowners should first drain the basement and mop up all excess water. If you don't have a dehumidifier, invest in one. The dehumidifier will capture the moist air and dry out the basement. Drying the space will help keep away mold. Keep doors and windows closed so the dehumidifier works effectively.

In carpeted areas of a flooded house, a wet vacuum can draw out water not visible to the eye. The main part of the house should be well ventilated. Open windows and doors to let fresh, dry air circulate through the home.

The Center For Disease Control (CDC) outlines steps to take if the house is damaged. First step is to ensure residing in the house will not create a health or safety issue. A FEMA representative can inspect a house as part of a damage assessment for the homeowner to file a claim.

Keep a record of the damage, including taking pictures before cleaning up. Notify the insurance carrier; you don't have to file a claim, but the insurance agent can outline what storm damage is covered under the homeowners policy.

If the house hasn't dried out within 48 hours, it's likely mold will start growing. Exposure to mold is a serious health issue. Mold can prompt asthma attacks, eye and skin irritation, and allergic reactions.

Flood water can leave bacteria, chemicals, viruses and parasites. During the clean up phase, the CDC recommends wearing protective glasses, a mask, and rubber gloves. Cleaning is a tedious task. Open kitchen cabinets, empty drawers, and wipe off the moisture, inside and out. If mold is detected, do not use a fan in the area to prevent the spread of mold. Use water and detergent to clean the mold. Do not mix bleach and ammonia together; the combination can create toxic fumes.

You can't hide mold. Painting or caulking over the mold will not prevent it from spreading. A mold remediation specialist can inspect the house to ensure all the mold is removed.

If appliances were damaged in the flood, go to the Marketplace website for information on energy efficient models. Appliances that are eligible for a rebate are marked by an orange rebate tag.

Specific questions about replacing appliances and other equipment can be answered by an Efficiency Vermont specialist. Go to the website for more information.