What You Can Do Until Help Arrives
If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:
- Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
- Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
- A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.
What to Do about Mold:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
What NOT to Do with Mold:
- Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
- Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
- Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
Follow product labels and material-specific cleaning instructions; never mix cleaning chemicals. For mold, first address the moisture source. Avoid disturbing extensive or hidden growth and ask a qualified professional to assess the affected area. The EPA mold cleanup guide explains cleanup considerations and when professional help is appropriate.