Helping residents understand the dangers of water and mold in our communities
Mold & Water Education
Providing education, resources, and guidance to help residents test and understand their water quality.
LBPHD's mold and water education resources provide information to help residents understand common environmental concerns that may affect homes, indoor environments, and overall health. This includes guidance on water safety, private well education, moisture concerns, mold prevention, and steps families can take to reduce environmental risks at home. Our goal is to provide clear, practical information, and connect residents with trusted resources to help support safe and healthy living environments.
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Water Education
Clean and safe water is an important part of maintaining a healthy home and community. Environmental conditions, flooding, aging infrastructure, and private well systems can all affect water quality.
Residents with private wells are responsible for maintaining and monitoring the safety of their own drinking water systems, as private wells are not regulated or routinely tested like public water systems. Regular well maintenance and routine water testing are important steps in helping identify contaminants that may affect water quality and health.
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Private well water can become contaminated by naturally occurring substances, flooding, agricultural runoff, septic system issues, or surface water entering the well. Common contaminants that may be found in private wells include bacteria, nitrates, arsenic, and other environmental pollutants.
Proper well maintenance can also help reduce contamination risks. Residents should regularly inspect well caps, protect wells from surface runoff, and keep chemicals, fuels, and other potential contaminants away from the well area.
Public water systems are regulated and routinely tested to help ensure drinking water meets federal and state safety standards. These systems are monitored for contaminants and must notify customers if any exceed safe levels.
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Residents with questions about public drinking water quality should contact their local water utility provider or review the annual Consumer Confidence Reports, which provide information on local water testing and quality.
Routine testing is recommended:
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At least once each year for bacteria and nitrates
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After flooding or significant storm events
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If there is a noticeable change in taste, smell, or appearance of the water
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If household members experience unexplained health concerns
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After flooding:
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Avoid drinking water that may be contaminated
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Follow boil water guidance, if applicable
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Have private wells inspected and tested before use
Floodwater can contaminate private wells and drinking water systems.
Private Wells
Public Water Systems
After Flooding
Mold Education & Prevention
Guidance and resources to help you prevent, identify, and respond to mold in your home.
LBPHD helps residents understand how moisture and mold can impact their home and health, and what steps to take to prevent and address it. Mold can develop in any home with excess moisture, especially in areas like basements, bathrooms, and around leaks.
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We provide practical guidance on identifying mold, addressing moisture issues, and safely cleaning small areas when appropriate. Our team also shares prevention strategies such as improving ventilation, controlling humidity, and responding quickly to water damage. While minor mold issues can often be managed with proper cleaning, larger or persistent problems may require professional remediation. Our goal is to provide clear, reliable information so you can take action early and maintain a safe, healthy home environment.
Preventing Mold Growth
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Repair leaks and water damage promptly
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Dry wet materials within 24–48 hours when possible
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Use ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas
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Maintain gutters and drainage systems
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Reduce indoor humidity levels when needed
Possilbe Health Effects
Exposure to mold may cause symptoms such as:
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Nasal congestion
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Coughing or wheezing
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Eye, nose, or throat irritation
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Worsening asthma or respiratory conditions
Children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or weakened immune systems may be more sensitive to mold exposure.
Mold Cleanup & Safety
Small areas of mold can often be cleaned using proper protective equipment and ventilation. Larger areas of mold or extensive water damage may require professional cleanup services.
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If you are unsure about how to clean an item, or if the item is expensive or of sentimental value, you may wish to consult a specialist. Specialists include those in furniture repair, restoration, painting, art restoration and conservation, carpet and rug cleaning, and water or fire damage restoration. Look for specialists who are affiliated with professional organizations. For assistance finding mold removal and cleaning services, reach out to our disease surveillance staff.
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Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Dry all items completely.
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Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely.
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Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy. Mold can grow on or fill in the empty spaces and crevices of porous materials, so the mold may be difficult or impossible to remove completely.
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Avoid exposing yourself or others to moldÂ
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Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.
If you are unsure about how to clean an item, or if the item is expensive or of sentimental value, you may wish to consult a specialist. Specialists in furniture repair, restoration, painting, art restoration and conservation, carpet and rug cleaning, water damage, and fire or water restoration. Look for specialists who are affiliated with professional organizations. For assitane finding mold removal and cleaning services reach out to our diease surveillance staff.