Guest guest Posted June 11, 2010 Report Share Posted June 11, 2010 FEMA warns of post-flood mold problems June 10, 2010 http://www.theinteriorjournal.com/stories/2010/06/10/loc.193774.sto In a recent letter to Kentucky newspaper editors, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Doug Mayne rhetorically asked, " If you knew that an organism in your house could cause serious health problems wouldn't you want to know about it? " For those in the county who were affected by the recent flood, the answer should be a resounding, " Yes! " FEMA forwarded important information from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) explaining that mold caused by contaminated materials, moisture and humidity can present serious long-term health risks in the home. When airborne mold spores are present in large numbers they can cause allergic reactions, asthma episodes, infections and other respiratory problems. Those most susceptible to adverse health effects from molds are infants, children, the elderly, those who are immune compromised (people with HIV infection, liver disease, in chemotherapy, etc), pregnant women and individuals with existing respiratory conditions such as allergies, multiple chemical sensitivity and asthma. If your house has molds growing in it as a result of the flood or other water in the home and you or a loved one begins to suffer respiratory problems (like wheezing and asthma attacks), burning or watery eyes, nose or throat irritations, skin irritations like rashes or hives, and nervous system disorders like headaches, memory loss and mood changes, you should see a physician immediately and inform your doctor that you have been exposed to mold in the home. Molds are fungi, simple microscopic organisms that thrive anywhere there is a moist environment. Mildew is a fungus that grows on plants, but the name is commonly used to refer to the discoloration on walls and bathroom surfaces caused by mold. Molds are a necessary part of the environment; without them, leaves would not decay and aspects of soil enrichment could not take place. It is the ability to destroy organic materials, however, that makes mold a problem for people – in our homes and in our bodies. Molds grow on wood products, ceiling tiles, cardboard, wallpaper, carpets, drywall, fabric, plants, foods, insulation, decaying leaves and other organic materials. Mold growths, or colonies, can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours. They reproduce by spores – tiny, lightweight " seeds " that travel through the air. Molds digest organic material, eventually destroying the material they grow on, and then spread to destroy adjacent organic material. Even worse, molds continue to grow until steps are taken to eliminate the source of moisture and effectively deal with the problem. The most devastating impact of floods is how much needs to be thrown away when the waters recede. Any porous material like carpets, carpet padding, sheetrock, ceiling tiles, non-rigid insulation, soft furniture and bedding that have mold growing on it must be disposed of. FEMA suggest that " When in doubt, throw it out. " Everything else needs to be scrubbed. (See sidebar for more detailed information.) FEMA recommends that you wear protective gloves and a filter mask during all demolition and cleaning procedures to avoid contact with molds because they release mold spores when disturbed. After the demolition and cleaning it is important to ensure the flooded area is truly dry; FEMA recommends that things like interior walls and floors be left exposed to the air for two to three days before they are recovered. During this time moisture in the air can be reduced with dehumidifiers, fans and open windows or air conditioners, especially in hot weather, however do not use fans if mold already exist; a fan will spread the mold spores. More information is available at FEMA's Disaster Relief Center in Kings Mountain at the South Lincoln County Memorial Community Center from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, or online at www.fema.gov. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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