In most cases, the health risks don't become serious until a variety of different types of mold start growing, and not all molds are dangerous. However, it's best to take precautions and play it safe because every person in your family will react differently to this common household inhabitant. Take a look at the following tips to keep your house a healthy home.
Identify
First, identify the potential trouble spots in your home. Mold needs moisture, warmth and food to thrive, and some of the most common places to find mold in homes are behind walls, under floors, above ceiling tiles and behind shower walls. It's important to remember that mold can't get started without water, and knowing that the common mold can take hold in as little as 24 hours can help you fight fungus before it gets its footing.
Remove
If you spot mold in your home, you should remove it immediately and take steps to prevent further growth and eliminate excessive moisture. You can clean up a small area of mold with a 10-to-1 bleach solution, but infestations that span more than 100 square feet may require professional cleaning.
Prevent
Follow these tips to help keep your home free from mold:
  | Keep standing water out of your home and fix any leaks within 24 hours. |
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| Make sure your home has adequate ventilation. In many cases, newer homes are more susceptible to mold since they're often more airtight. |
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| Keep furniture away from outside walls where condensation may accumulate. |
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| Be on the lookout for discolourations of walls and ceilings, and unusual odours. |
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| Know the symptoms of mold-related illnesses, which can range from chronic sinus infections and asthma to nosebleeds, extreme fatigue, severe headaches, dizziness, rashes and central nervous system problems. |
