Mold Risks Following a Hurricane

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2024) - Charlotte County urges residents to be aware of the potential health and home safety risks caused by mold growth. Excess moisture from flooding can quickly lead to mold in homes, posing serious health risks and causing damage to both structural and personal property.

Health Risks of Mold

• Mold spores are microscopic and can spread easily through the air, potentially causing respiratory issues, infections, allergies, and asthma attacks. Individuals with weakened immune systems, infants, children, and the elderly may experience more severe reactions. People with breathing problems or those prone to respiratory issues should avoid contact with mold-affected areas entirely.

Identifying and Removing Mold

• Mold may be visible on items like clothing, drywall, and furniture, or hidden behind walls, under flooring, and in other areas not easily seen. It is critical to act quickly - drying your home and removing water-damaged materials within 24-48 hours is the most effective way to prevent mold damage from worsening.

• Items that cannot be fully dried or cleaned within this time should be removed and discarded to ensure your home is safe for your family.

Steps for Mold Removal and Home Repair

While professional assistance may be necessary for severe cases, residents who choose to tackle mold removal themselves should follow these safety tips:

• Wear protective gear: Eye protection, a face mask, gloves, long-sleeved clothing, and waterproof boots are essential to minimize contact with mold and harmful particles.

• Ventilate your home: Open doors and windows to air out your home for at least 30 minutes before working inside. When safe, use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air and reduce moisture levels.
• Remove all contaminated materials: Ensure all wet or contaminated materials are identified and disposed of properly. This includes structural elements and personal belongings that cannot be fully dried.
• Thorough cleaning: Use water and detergent to clean all visible mold and dry the area immediately. Avoid mixing cleaning products, especially bleach and ammonia, as this can release toxic fumes.

• Complete repairs: Ensure all mold is removed and water issues are fully resolved before painting or caulking. Painting over mold without proper treatment will not prevent future growth.

Document the Damage for FEMA Assistance
Residents are encouraged to take photographs of any mold-related damage and retain all receipts for repair-related expenses. These documents will help FEMA inspectors assess damages and ensure accurate reimbursement.

How to Register for FEMA Assistance
For those affected by the disaster, FEMA assistance is available. Residents can register for support in the following ways:

• Visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 1-800-462-7585)

• Visit a local Disaster Recovery Center. Locations and hours of operation are available at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.

Residents are reminded to prioritize health and safety during cleanup efforts.

For storm information, call the Charlotte County Emergency Operations Center at 941-833-4000 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Follow Charlotte County Emergency Management for important emergency information at www.charlottecountyfl.gov/em, www.facebook.com/oemcharlottecounty, and www.x.com/ccoem.

For media information, contact Communications Director Brian Gleason at 941-661-6415 or [email protected].

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