Norman Thidemann of FEMA fields lots of questions about flooding at Home Depot this week. - Photo by Julia Fairclough

By Julia Fairclough
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Homeowners this week can talk in-person to a Federal Emergency Management Association representative about how to clean out their basements, as well as hear advice on how to prepare for a possible relief grant.
In the wake of the major flash floods of last weekend, FEMA has set up a table at the Home Depot on Mystic Avenue, laden with guides on how to protect your home from flood damage, mold and mildew control, and applications for help after a disaster. FEMA set up its information table last Thursday, and will be at the Home Depot this week.
“People are really looking for guidance on what to do next, in terms of cleaning up,” said Norman Thidemann of FEMA, who was busy handing out guides and fielding various questions on Thursday.
FEMA officials made the following recommendations:
The most important thing to bear in mind is that failing to remove water-soaked 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 mold.
Mold and mildew will develop within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. And it will continue to grow until you take the steps necessary to eliminate the source of moisture. People should wash metal, glass, solid wood, and plastic with a non-ammonia detergent and hot water. Disinfect cleaned surfaces with a bleach solution and let it stay on the surface for 10 minutes before rinsing with water and letting it dry.
Next, get the ventilation going in the basement by opening windows and using industrial fans to dry out the area, Thidemann said.
FEMA also fielded questions about receiving federal assistance for the flood damage to their homes. Many people had lost everything that was in their basement-including their washer and dryers and hot water heaters.
Bill Stella, 72, of Charlestown, had water up above his knees in his basement. He lost boxes of curtains and drapes, as well as other personal memorabilia. He also had  questions on how to get rid of the mold and moisture. Does FEMA help with that? he asked Thidemann.
Thidemann said that people have to wait until FEMA declares the area to be a federal disaster. When a disaster takes place, the Individuals and Households Program provides money and services to people in the disaster area when losses are not covered by insurance and property has been damaged or destroyed.
People should focus on clean-up first, and take photos of the damage and damaged goods, Thidemann said. They can also keep records for tax purposes because some damaged items are tax deductible.
People can apply online-but only when FEMA declares the Federal disaster-by visiting www.fema.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA.
Cynthia Mitchell, an East Somerville resident, had heard FEMA would be at Home Depot and made the trip to learn about flood damage, since her basement had flooded. She was also going to buy some fans.
“There was so much stored stuff down there that was damaged, we are still assessing,” she said.