Volunteers Prepare To Take On Mold

October 27, 2005

10/24/05

Biloxi, MS

The bleach used to get rid of mold may actually be adding to the

problem. That's what an expert told several volunteer groups in East

Biloxi on Monday at a seminar on mold removal.

The volunteers want to do the best they can to get East Biloxi

houses flooded by Katrina suitable enough for the homeowners to move

back in. Volunteers believe they could do a better job if they knew

what to do.

Nick Heyming of Catholic Charities set up the seminar.

" They're all trying to do the best that they can to get these houses

to the point where we can start rebuilding. Unfortunately, nobody is

quite sure what those steps are. "

Mold expert Tassey's training session stressed safety and

proper equipment. He advised volunteers to bypass a commonly used

household product.

" People shouldn't use bleach because it will leave something behind

that will pull water back into it later, " said Tassey. " What they

should use is any other type of sanitizer that has soap in it also. "

City officials say nearly every house in East Biloxi needs this type

of cleaning. Volunteers know they don't have the resources to remove

all mold or fix all problems, but say every bit of knowledge helps.

O'Neal volunteers for Hands On USA.

" By better understanding the process, we're better able to use our

resources in order to better help this community. "

Tassey also says people shouldn't use pressure washers to

remove mold. He says that introduces more water into the home and

water is what's causing the mold in the first place.

by le

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