Damage from flooding is extensive in many neighbourhoods and officials want to ensure everyone knows how to deal with things like mould and bacteria.

Cleaning up after a flood ~ viruses, bacteria and mould

During a flood clean up, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems. However, failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present serious long-term health risks.

Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and mould. They can cause disease, trigger allergic reactions, and continue to damage materials long after the flood.

For information on how to clean up after a flood and how to prevent indoor air problems, residents should review the Homes and Buildings document on the Alberta Health Services website or call HealthLink Alberta at 1-866-408-5465.

For information on addressing the needs of carpets, floors, walls and cavities as result of the flood, please refer to Arriving Home - Flooding in Calgary.

Check the status of food in your home

Destroy refrigerated and frozen foods which have completely thawed or have spent an unknown amount of time in refrigerators without power. If in doubt, throw it out.

Because floodwaters carry disease germs, only foods sealed in metal cans are safe. Damaged or blown (bulged) cans should be discarded.

If the seal is undamaged, clean the outside of the container with a warm detergent solution.

  • A firm brush will be required to clean the area around the rims and caps.
  • Disinfect clean cans in a solution containing chlorine (Javex, Perfex, etc.) or other good disinfectant.
  • Rinse and dry the cans before storing to prevent metal corrosion.

Dispose of the following if they have come into contact with flood waters:

  • The contents of your freezer or refrigerator
  • All meats, fresh fruits and vegetables
  • All boxed foods
  • All products in jars, including home preserves, and all bottled drinks (the area under the seal of jars and bottles cannot be adequately disinfected)
  • All medicines, cosmetics and other toiletry items.

Visit Alberta Health Services for more information.

Check medications

If your medications require refrigeration, they may no longer be safe to consume. Contact your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Getting help for deceased pets

If your pet has been found deceased in your home, call 311.