Mold a Threat After Hurricane Rita

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Mold a Threat After Hurricane Rita

October 19, 2005

http://www.insurancejournal.com/news/southcentral/2005/10/19/61011.ht

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Homeowners, renters and business owners affected by Hurricane Rita

need to know that failure to remove mold and mildew properly can

result in serious, long-term health problems, including asthma and

other respiratory problems.

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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency

Management Agency (FEMA) is offering some information on helping

people treat the mold problems caused by flooding.

Treating Mold:

* First make sure the electricity is turned off.

* Wear a dust mask and gloves while cleaning.

* Identify and remove any sources of moisture.

* Begin drying any and all materials that got wet.

* Remove and dispose of mold-contaminated materials.

* Clean non-porous or semi-porous items.

* Disinfect surfaces by mixing 1/4 to 1/2 cup bleach in every gallon

of water and apply to surfaces where mold growth was visible before

cleaning.

* Apply the disinfecting solution with a spray bottle, garden

sprayer, sponge or other suitable method.

* When disinfecting heavily soiled surfaces, it is important to

change the disinfecting solution frequently to ensure effectiveness.

It should be changed when it becomes cloudy.

* Allow the treated surfaces to dry naturally and use fans or air

conditioning to speed up the drying process.

* You can reduce the incidence of mold growth by reducing the

humidity, lowering the temperature of your home, and ventilating

bath and cooking areas. Also, avoid installing carpet in kitchens

and baths.

* If mold odors persist, continue to dry out the area and search for

any hidden areas of mold. If any area continues to smell musty, you

may have to repeat the cleaning process.

Health Effects of Mold:

* Respiratory problems, such as wheezing, and difficulty in breathing

* Nasal and sinus congestion

* Burning and watering eyes

* Dry, hacking cough

* Sore throat

* Nose and throat irritation

* Shortness of breath

* Skin irritation.

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the above symptoms.

Infants, children, the elderly and pregnant women are at higher risk

for adverse health effects from mold.

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