10 things to know about mold

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.

2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.

3. If mold is a problem, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.

4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.

5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60 percent) to decrease mold growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.

6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.

7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.

8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.

9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).

10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

• If the outside temperature is above 60 degrees, use dehumidifiers if available;

• Use fans to circulate the air and assist drying;

• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting;

• Wipe furniture dry;

• Lift draperies off carpet, loop through a coat hanger, and place the hanger on the drapery rod;

• Prop up wet furniture cushions for even drying and place small wood blocks or aluminum foil under furniture legs;

• Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings;

• Open furniture drawers, closet doors, and luggage to enhance drying;

• Move photos, paintings, and art objects to a safe, dry location;

• Remove wet fabrics and dry them as soon as possible. Hang leather goods to dry separately at room temperature;

• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry;

• If damage occurs during a cool season, leave heat on; if in summer, use an air conditioner if available.

• Do not use an ordinary household vacuum to remove water;

• Do not use electrical appliances while on wet carpet or wet floors;

• Do not go into rooms with standing water if the electricity is still on;

• Do not lift tacked down carpet without professional help. Lifting the carpet incorrectly could promote shrinkage;

• Damage from the water and bacteria growth can begin within hours.

• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes, and carpets;

• Cover carpeted traffic areas with towels or old linens to prevent additional soiling;

• Discard open food packages. The food could be contaminated;

• If electrical service is off, clean out your freezer and refrigerator. Leave the doors propped open or place charcoal in the unit;

• Send clothing with heavy smoke damage to a qualified professional dry cleaner who specializes in smoke damage;

• Clean Formica and chrome fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom to prevent permanent tarnishing;

•Wipe residue from porcelain bath fixtures to prevent etching;

• Wipe the leaves of plants to remove smoke residue;

• Change the air filter on your furnace if it uses forced hot air;

• Tape cheesecloth over intake and outlet air registers to capture any loose soot in the air. This is even more effective if the cheesecloth is damp;

• If the outside temperature is above 60 degrees, air out to reduce smoke odor. ❑