Message to flood victims from the Wenham Board of Health

[Guest guest]

Message to flood victims from the Wenham Board of Health

Thursday, May 18, 2006 - Updated: 03:29 PM EST

Hamilton-Wenham Chronicle - Beverly,MA

http://www2.townonline.com/hamilton/localRegional/view.bg?

articleid=498203

The Wenham Board of Health wishes to its express its concern for the

damages done to homes during the recent flooding event. In an effort

to maintain a healthy environment when returning to your house the

following items are suggested:

If your primary source of drinking water is not from the Town Water

Department but from an onsite well, please consume only bottled

water until the well is tested and shown to be free of bacteria.

If your primary heating source includes forced hot air, please

refrain from using this facility as it will serve to dissipate mold

spores throughout the undamaged house. Please maintain a negative

air pressure in the basement by closing the basement access door to

the upstairs living area, opening all the windows within the

basement and installing a window fan(s) on exhaust in one of the

window openings. Portable heaters maybe used in conjunction with the

fan providing the basement air is removed to the outside. Should the

dwelling area suffer water damage to the Sheetrock, the possibility

of mold growth on the interior walk side cannot be ruled out.

Should your yard be currently flooded in an area known to contain

the septic leaching area be advised that normal water usage may

result in a sewage backup into the house. Pumping of the septic tank

should provide you with three or more days of limited water usage.

The long-term effects of flooding of the septic leaching area may

not be immediately apparent.

Please be vigilant in the use of electrical outlets that have been

inundated with water. Although air drying of wood and Sheetrock may

appear to have resisted mold growth, moisture, heat, paper and

cellulose are primary catalysts and substrates for long-term growth.

Should you have any questions concerning these issues, the Board

of Health is there to help. Call 978-468-5522.

[Guest guest]

KC thanks. I sent this to my parents as they are flooded out in their

basement.

Janet