Take charge of your mold
What is it and how does it impact me?
Mold is a fungus growth that occurs on food or in a home or other moist warm conditions. Did you know that in large quantities, this small fungus can impact your health and the health of your community?
Mold impacts health in a multitude of ways. Some individuals see no reaction to the presence of mold indoors, while others can be compromised. Young children, elderly, and immunocompromised folks are at risk from mold. Reactions can include stuffy nose, wheezing, red or itchy eyes, and in more serious situations, it is linked to respiratory problems or lifelong effects like memory loss, insomnia, or confusion.
See the Community Action Works guide on mold to learn more about mold, the risks, and what you can do about it.
How do I prevent it?
The formation of mold can be prevented by staying vigilant and following these easy steps. Controlling moisture by keeping a low humidity environment indoors is crucial. This can be accomplished with air conditioners and dehumidifiers and keeping thorough ventilation throughout the home. In addition, drying all additional moisture in the bathroom or kitchen as needed.
Who takes care of it?
All humans deserve clean air in their homes, offices, and schools. It is the owner of the facility—whether that be the landlord of your apartment or the local school district—to eradicate all present mold.
By law, all homes must be weather- and water-tight to prevent the formation of mold. If you see mold in your home, immediately report it to the landlord. If the problem is not addressed in a timely manner or at all, there are other steps you can take to protect the health of your community.
Contact your town’s health inspector, pull together a community group to confront those harming the community’s health and demand action, and if necessary, contact legal aid.
Resources:
Toxic Mold: Everything You Need to Tackle Mold and Make Change in Your Community
Learn more about mold, the risks, your rights when it comes to mold in your home, school or building, and what you can do about it.
Mold 101: What to do and who to call
Learn the first steps of what you can do to get help cleaning up mold in your community.
Solving Mold in Your Home or Building: 3-Part Guide
