Rip Out the Floors if You Were Flooded

Mold could be growing right now in flooring of homes and businesses flooded by Sandy.

Point Pleasant Beach is strongly recommending that "all floodwater-soaked building elements such as such as wallboard, insulation, trim and flooring be removed."

The exposed areas of wood need to be dried and sterilized prior to the replacement of new material, says a notice from Point Pleasant Beach.

"All floodwater-damaged electrical equipment, including switches, outlets, breakers and other devices, must be replaced," the notice says.

For more information about how mold, which breeds toxins, dust mites and bacteria, can threaten respiratory health, and how to treat and remove mold, click here.

The town's notice says, "Once the town has concluded storm-related debris removal, at a date and time to be determined, owners of properties will bear the responsibility to remove all debris at their own expense thereafter."

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) has a temporary office at the Bay Head Firehouse on Bridge Avenue "to serve all affected communities," the notice says. All Sandy-damaged businesses and primary residences should register with FEMA for potential reimbursement.

Gov. Christie's office issued the following regarding contacting FEMA:

"Register by phone at 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585 for those with hearing or speech impairments. Specialists are standing by at the toll-free numbers seven days a week, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, until further notice. Or you can register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply through a web-enabled mobile device or smartphone by visiting http://m.fema.gov/ and following the link to apply online for federal assistance."