Mucking and Gutting Guide for Flood Recovery

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Oct. 2, 2024) - Following the recent flooding, Charlotte County advises residents to safely begin the mucking and gutting process as the first step toward rebuilding their homes. This phase involves removing water-damaged belongings, tearing out compromised construction materials, and preparing the home for mold treatment.

Mucking and gutting is important in flood recovery, but it also presents serious health risks. This process includes removing mud, debris, and damaged materials such as drywall, insulation, and flooring. Proper safety precautions are crucial to protect against injuries and illnesses caused by mold, toxins, and contaminants in floodwaters.

Recommended Tools and Materials

• Boots
• Clorox wipes
• Contractor garbage bags
• Crowbar/pry-bar
• Duct tape
• Floor scraper
• Hammers
• Hand sanitizer
• Hard hats
• Leather work gloves
• Nitrile gloves
• Respirators (P-100)
• Safety googles
• Shovels
• Sledge hammer
• Tile chisel
• Tyvek suits
• Utility knives
• Water
• Wheelbarrows

Before You Begin

• Homeowners should photograph all damages for FEMA or insurance claims before starting the cleanup.
• Ensure that electricity and gas are turned off at the breaker or meter to avoid accidents.
• Inspect the roof and exterior to confirm the structure is safe to enter.
• Use respirators, Tyvek suits, goggles, and gloves before entering the home to minimize exposure to hazardous materials.

Steps to Safely Muck and Gut

• Clear out damaged belongings and separate them into piles by material type. For safety, do not open refrigerators; tape or tie them shut and place them at the curb.
• Use shovels to remove mud and debris to prevent slipping and create a safer environment for workers.
• Remove water-damaged drywall, insulation, and baseboards. Be mindful of the waterline and remove drywall at least 2 feet above it, as water tends to travel up the material. Ensure all nails and screws are removed from exposed framing to prepare for mold treatment.

Additional Safety Tips

• Muck and gut work can expose individuals to mold and toxic substances. Always wear the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Clean and cover any wounds immediately to avoid infection.
• Be cautious of snakes and other animals that may be hiding in debris.

For recovery information, call the Charlotte County Emergency Operations Center at 941-833-4000 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Follow Charlotte County Emergency Management for important emergency information at www.charlottecountyfl.gov/em, www.facebook.com/oemcharlottecounty, and www.x.com/ccoem.

For media information, contact Communications Director Brian Gleason at 941-661-6415 or [email protected].

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