storm related danger-toxic mold
By · CommentsFive years after Katrina, the city of New Orleans still faces a significant storm related danger-toxic mold. Within days of the storm waters subsiding, mold had begun to spread throughout the entire region, affecting many people. Children were especially vulnerable, and a study conducted by Xavier University in August of 2010 found that 80% of children with asthma in post-Katrina New Orleans were sensitive to mold. This figure is 30% higher than for children from other parts of the country. Researchers say this shows an undeniable link between the environment and the health of children. In short, the unique environmental conditions precipitated by Katrina only serve to underscore how extremely dangerous mold can be.
It does not take a hurricane force storm surge to create enough mold to affect the health of you and your family. Something as tiny as a hose which is allowing water to seep into the walls or floor of your home is all it takes to encourage mold to grow. If you find evidence of water leaking anywhere in your house, don’t wait to take action. Mold can form in less than 24 hours, so the time to act is as soon as you are aware of any water leaks or moisture problems.
If you suspect the presence of mold in your home, take immediate steps to remove the source of the moisture and consider calling a company that specializes in mold remediation. An expert can help you locate and remove any sources of mold, and help you to ensure your home is safe for the entire family.
Water damage and mold Charleston SC
By · CommentsMold and your Refrigerator
By · CommentsDo you know what is growing in your refrigerator? It could be mold; and, it could be dangerous. When we think about toxic mold, we don’t usually think about the type of mold that can form on foods. However, the presence of any type of mold in your home can potentially have dangerous consequences for your health as well as the health of your family and pets.
Although the ideal environment for mold is a warm, dark, damp space, not all molds are intolerant to cold temperatures. And if the molds can grow, they can also release microscopic spores which can find their way into other parts of your home.
To keep your refrigerator free of mold and your family safe, clean the inside of your refrigerator every few weeks. Carefully check food before purchasing to make sure mold is not present. Once you get the food home, cover and store promptly.
If you find evidence of mold underneath your refrigerator, it may be the result of water leaking out. Make sure that you not only remove the mold, but locate the source of the moisture as well. Consider bringing in a company that specializes in mold remediation to help you locate and eliminate all possible sources of mold. Your health , and the health of your family may depend on it.
The dangers of toxic mold
By · CommentsThere have been quite a few horror stories in the news lately about toxic mold. We’ve heard about children falling dangerously ill and even about houses that were so full of mold they had to be burned to the ground. Are these stories exaggerated to make them more newsworthy? Or is toxic mold as severe a problem as we’ve been told?
Sadly, the facts about toxic mold are true. It can be extremely dangerous to humans and animals, especially with continuous exposure in a closed environment such as a house or office building. If a form of toxic mold is allowed to take hold in your home, it can send out dangerous spores called mycotoxins into your living environment. These toxins can result in serious health problems.
Some of the problems which have been associated with toxic mold exposure include respiratory illnesses, skin rashes, memory problems and even brain damage just to name a few.
So, how does toxic mold get into your home? Mold can grow in more places than you realize. Some common places where mold can thrive are air conditioning ducts, vinyl wall coverings, washing machines that do not have a drain below them, bathrooms which are not sufficiently ventilated, closets, trash cans, attics, carpets, and upholstery.
The best defense you have against any type of mold is knowledge. Be aware of how and where it can it can appear, measure and maintain the humidity in your home or office, and repair any water problems quickly. It’s also a very good idea to enlist the help of a professional. Consider a company certified in mold remediation. They can test for harmful mold spores as well as assisting you with treatment and clean-up. You will be able to take comfort in the knowledge that the air quality in your home or business has been tested and made safe for your family or your employees.