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News
After
the Flood: Preventing and Removing Mold
Posted 20 June 2008
Mold growth is a common event after flood waters recede. Molds are a
natural part of the environment and we are exposed to mold spores in
everyday activities. Because molds have the potential to cause health
problems when excessive growth occurs, they should be cleaned promptly
and correctly. "Any structure that has been flooded should be presumed
to contain materials contaminated with mold if those materials were not
thoroughly dried within 48 hours," said Iowa Department of Public
Health Director Tom Newton. "Under the current conditions, it is
obvious mold growth is something to be aware of."
Exposure to molds can cause reactions such as sneezing, runny nose, red
eyes and rash. These types of reactions are common and can be immediate
or delayed. To effectively prevent the growth of mold, the following
steps should be taken:
* Clean up and dry out the area as quickly as
possible. Open windows and doors and use fans or dehumidifiers to dry
out the area.
* Remove, dispose, and replace all items that have
absorbed flood water and cannot be thoroughly washed and dried.
Examples of these items include carpeting and carpet padding,
upholstery, wallpaper, drywall, ceiling tiles, insulation material,
leather, paper, some wood and wood products, and food.
* Clean wet non-porous (items that do not absorb
water) items and surfaces with detergent and water to prevent mold
growth.
If mold has already begun to grow, it's important to remove it as soon
as possible. The longer mold grows, the more destructive it can become.
When cleaning up mold, a few precautions should be taken:
* Wear gloves to protect your hands. Wear goggles
that do not have ventilation holes to avoid getting mold or mold spores
in your eyes.
* Avoid breathing in mold or mold spores. This can
be done by carefully removing mold contaminated materials so mold
spores do not become disturbed. In cases of severe mold growth, a dust
mask or respirator can be worn to minimize exposure.
For more information on mold prevention and cleanup, the following
resources are available:
* www.cdc.gov/mold/pdfs/dampness_facts.pdf
* www.epa.gov/mold/moldbasics.html
For more information on general health issues related to flooding,
visit www.idph.state.ia.us/adper/flood.asp.
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