Region Seven Providing Hazardous Material Expertise for Iowa Floods

(Kansas City, Kan., June 16, 2008) - E.P.A. Region seven has been tasked by FEMA to provide expertise in potential hazardous materials/oil/chemical incidents related to the Iowa floods beginning Saturday, June 14.

FEMA has funded E.P.A. Region seven with $10,000 to conduct initial hazardous material assessments. E.P.A. may also provide expertise to the state about drinking water systems and waste water systems that may have been affected by the flooding.

E.P.A. has fliers accessible at www.epa.gov/region07 for agencies to provide to residents in flooded areas. These fliers have helpful information for citizens whose homes or businesses have been flooded. Subjects include: getting rid of mold, checking HVAC for mold, washing hands, food safety, household hazard waste, and returning home safely.

Additionally, the following audio files (.mp3 files) are accessible online:

• "Flood Water" - challenges of dealing with flood waters.
• "Private Wells and Flood Water" - water quality and private wells.
• "Household Cleaners" - flood cleanup involves cleaners, disinfectants, and pesticides.
• "Protective Gear" - use of protective clothing and equipment is essential when cleaning up after a flood.

As with any flooding situation, E.P.A. recommends that residents avoid contact with flood water.

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