Check for water damage to prevent mold

It's important to inspect your home for any water damage from Hurricane Dolly as soon as possible to prevent mold growth.

Controlling moisture is key to keeping mold at bay. Make sure to dry off water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours, because when mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin to grow.

Molds grow on wood, paper, carpet, brick and foods and can produce tiny spores that continually travel through indoor and outdoor air.

It is not only unsightly, but can cause health problems like allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.

There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores indoors, though.

If mold is already a problem in your home, clean the mold and get rid of the excess water or moisture. Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water. Wash mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely. Absorbent materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet that become moldy may have to be replaced.

Reduce indoor humidity to 30 to 60 percent to decrease mold growth by venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning.

For a fact sheet on mold, contact Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Hidalgo County at (956) 383-1026.

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Nora N. Garza is a County Extension Agent with Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Hidalgo County, a part of Texas A&M System.