ServPro admits mold can hurt anybody

[Guest guest]

Local ServPro Owners Offer Advice on How to Fight, Prevent Mold

One might think mold only affects " at risk " people, such as children,

senior citizens, those who are immune-suppressed or those suffering

from chronic inflammatory lung diseases like asthma and severe

allergies. In recognition of Mold Awareness Month this month, however,

local cleanup and restoration professionals are correcting that

misconception and explaining how mold can really affect anyone who is

exposed to it.

" It's true that those who suffer from health

problems are more inclined to have harsher side effects when exposed to

mold, but it’s important to know that mold does not discriminate, " said

Rick Isaacson, executive vice president of Servpro Industries, Inc.

" People of all ages and health statuses are vulnerable to health

problems associated with exposure to mold. These side effects can

include something as minor as a runny nose, sneezing or coughing, to

things more intense like aggravation of asthma, sore throat and

inflammation of the sinuses. "

Water intrusions may lead to the

growth of mold, and many times that intrusion is the result of storm

damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor

humidity control. " If water intrusions are not addressed right away,

the resulting damage may present an increased risk of harmful mold

growth. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental

conditions that pose a health threat, " said Isaacson.

In

observation of this month's awareness campaign, Isaacson is offering

helpful information about the fungus that often lies hidden in many

homes and business buildings in the local community. The following

advice can help people tackle mold in its early stages: Understand Mold

There are over 100,000 species of identified mold, Isaacson said. We

are consistently exposed to thousands of different types of fungi in

our everyday lives. Certain types of fungi exist naturally in soils,

plants, fruits and textiles and are generally not harmful, but others

that grow in water, moisture and high humidity in buildings are just

the opposite. Take Precaution

Mold is more likely to spread

when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of

time. If your property has sustained recent water damage, it is

important to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If you

notice an ongoing moisture problem, be on alert for the following signs:

â–ª The presence of visible mold

â–ª Strong, musty odors

â–ª Evidence of past moisture issues that might have caused undetected mold

growth

â–ª Excessive humidity Fight Mold

â–ª Periodically inspect your property. Look for water and moisture in

and around your home. Pay special attention around pipes, in basements

and crawl spaces, behind boxes and contents in dark areas of your

property. Note: you may have to hire a professional, such as those at

SERVPRO. Mold can live in unseen areas such as ceilings or wall

cavities.

â–ª Control the humidity in bathrooms and wherever

water is repeatedly used. Exhaust fans, proper caulking and effective

cleaning with an appropriate cleaning product will help keep mold

problems away.

â–ª Regularly have your HVAC system and air

conditioner inspected to identify moisture problems or drain clogs. " By

following these tips, you can help keep your insurance costs down and

protect your property, " Isaacson said. " Do not procrastinate. The most

important step you can take is to identify any humidity, moisture or

water damage problems before they create bigger problems such as mold

growth or structural damage. In many cases, the mold problem can be

addressed without having to make an insurance claim. "

Beyond

taking actions on your own to prevent mold, it’s important to know when

it's time to call an indoor air quality professional who knows what he

or she is doing,

Isaacson said. SERVPRO has been restoring

properties since 1967. SERVPRO responds to mold problems around the

clock and has equipment to professionally test for moisture, extract

water completely and dry properties in the local community.

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