Union County, NJ – Major storms and heavy rains have left a trail of mold in homes around Union County over the past several years. To help homeowners identify a mold problem and take steps to remove it, seven free mold workshops have been scheduled in Linden, Elizabeth Plainfield, Roselle, Hillside, Westfield, and Cranford.
Union County residents can attend any of the seven sessions. Those who pre-register will receive a free mold mitigation kit and a moisture meter worth $75.
“Mold has been a health issue in many communities that were affected by flooding Hurricane Irene, Superstorm Sandy, and other recent storms,” said Freeholder Chairman Mohamed S. Jalloh. “If you think mold is in your home, I encourage you to come to one of the workshops.”
Mold can stain walls and ceilings, and cause other property damage.
The health effects of mold exposure include nasal and throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation and in some cases skin irritation. Individuals at highest risk include those with pre-existing health conditions such as allergies, lung conditions, asthma or emphysema, as well as infants and the elderly. Persons who suspect they might have symptoms of mold exposure should contact a physician.
At the workshops, attendees will learn how to identify and safely remove mold. The presenter will be an experienced health and safety trainer from the New Jersey Work Environment Council and the International Chemical Workers Council for Health.
The seven workshops are:
- Borough Hall Court House, 210 Chestnut Street, Roselle on April 23, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Family Success Center, 209 Berckman Street, Plainfield on April 25, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Township Courthouse, 1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside, on May 11, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Froehlich Building, 300 North Avenue East, Westfield, on May 20, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Rahway Public Library, 2 City Hall Plaza, Rahway, on May 28, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (NEW)
- Community Center, 220 Walnut Avenue, Cranford, on June 6, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Pre-registration is preferred, though walk-ins will be accepted. To register contact Andrea Navas, Public Health Planner, at the Union County Office of Health Management at 908-518-5630 or UCHEALTH@ucnj.org.
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