WHAT IS Mould & how can it affect my health? Any type of fungi that grows on food or damp materials is commonly known as mould. Regardless of the type, Health Canada recommends that all moulds need immediate attention. People living in homes with mould and damp conditions increase their risk of respiratory symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, coughing and phlegm build-up, wheezing and shortness of breath and worsening of asthma symptoms. Mould can cause:

Mould thrives in damp, warm and humid environments. What causes mold? Mould thrives in damp, warm and humid environments.

WHAT CAN I DO? PREVENT CLEAN Mould can grow behind walls or above ceiling tiles where it is hard to see, so it is important to check for the presence of mould anywhere that is damp and especially where water damage has occurred. Unless the cause of the moisture problem has been identified and solved, mould will reappear.   PREVENT CLEAN 1. Keep humidity level low: Cracking open windows while showering or bathing, washing clothes or cooking. Use bathroom and kitchen fans and ensure they are operating correctly and use them. To ensure your fans are operating lift your hand up to the fan to ensure there is a decent airflow. 2. Fix leaks or infiltration 3. Dry wet areas within 48 hours 4. Clean up any mould you find following proper procedure   1. Assess the mould area - If the area is larger than 1 square meter, Health Canada recommends an expert assessment and cleanup is required. 2. Fix moisture causes, dry wet surfaces within 48 hours. 3. Wearing mask, goggles and gloves – clean all small patches of mould with soap and water. No need to use bleach. 4. Throw away what you cannot clean including building materials such as drywall if they cannot be cleaned.