Mold a danger for those hit by last week’s flash flooding
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Increased flooding in Mid-Missouri has caused longer wait times for restoration companies. But experts say people who have flood damage in their homes shouldn't wait to take steps against mold.
Ann Hisle with ServPro said mold can form in as little as 48 hours. Flooded areas inside homes should be dried as quickly as possible to reduce mold buildup. ServPro had 150 flood cleanup calls over the weekend.
"If you have things that are properly dried out on a water damage loss, the chances of mold are very slim," Hisle said.
Hisle said drywall is like a sponge and can cause mold to grow up the wall.
Gary Hook with Foundation Recovery Systems said one preventive measure against flooding is to keep gutters clean and working properly. Hook said people should try to do their best to release water away from their home and not near the foundation.
Hook said if your house floods often, and you are waiting on a company for help, it can be worth it to remove your drywall and carpets near flooded areas.
Hook also recommended creating a barrier around a home with sandbags to reduce flood damage.
Both Hook and Hisle said there is only so much someone can do to prevent mold. If the problem persists they said it is best to contact a company for professional help.
Cindy Rose, a nurse practitioner at MU Health Care, said with the increased rainfall people in Mid-Missouri should be concerned about mold exposure. She said it is not uncommon for people to experience mold exposure and not even know it is happening.
"It can present like pretty typical allergy symptoms or cold with a runny nose a slight cough, maybe some nasal congestion," Rose said.
Rose said some people may experience symptoms right away while others could take weeks or months.
Rose said other common symptoms are persistent headaches and fatigue. She said long term exposure to mold can result in asthma, pneumonia, severe lung infections and even death.
