WINDSOR, Conn. – The floodwaters may have receded months ago, but mold and mildew – dormant during the winter months — may reappear in water-damaged homes as the weather warms.

Mold only grows in warm, wet conditions and may have been inactive and unnoticed during the winter months. It can lurk throughout a home, from the attic to the basement and crawl spaces.

State and federal disaster recovery officials warn that mold can cause serious, long-term health problems. The best defense is to thoroughly clean, disinfect, and dry areas where mold is found.  Porous materials—things that absorb water—can trap mold forever and should be discarded.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone avoid unnecessary exposure to mold, especially anyone at high risk for infection. For more information on mold or mold cleanup visit their website. (También disponible en español)

The Environmental Protection Agency offers a comprehensive, 20-page guide, “Mold, Moisture and Your Home” (También disponible en español)

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