Submitted by Elisa Sparkman, Thurston County Healthy Homes Specialist
Thurston County Healthy Homes Program has several workshops scheduled this spring throughout the county. It’s an opportunity to learn about dealing with housing-related health risks like mold, indoor air pollution, toxic exposures, pest control and more. This workshop is great for both renters and homeowners.
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Mold can be big trouble for your family’s health. Photo courtesy: Public Health and Social Services Tuesday March 19, 6:30—8:30 p.m. at the Quarry House in the Tenino City Park
- Thursday April 11, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at ROOF Community Services in Rochester
- Thursday May 2, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Yelm Community Center in Yelm
- Wednesday June 5, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Thurston County Public Health & Social Services in Olympia
To register contact HealthyHomes@co.thurston.wa.us or 360-867-2674
One of the main topics of the workshops is mold. Mold is extremely common in Thurston County because we experience so much rain. It’s easy to get worried when you find it in your home – especially if you’ve heard about “toxic” mold or “black” mold. Some molds produce toxins, but they are not very common. The color of mold doesn’t mean it’s more dangerous than another color. These are myths. Any mold in your home isn’t good for your health, but there are many simple ways to reduce the impact of mold and to prevent it.
Moldy and damp indoor environments can cause cold-like symptoms. Some people don’t feel the impacts of mold at all and some are more sensitive to mold exposure than others and may feel sick right away or can get worse over time. Infants, small children, the elderly, people with asthma, lung diseases, allergies and other chronic health issues are more susceptible to the harmful effects of mold exposure.
Another important topic covered in the workshops is indoor air pollution. Many people are shocked to learn that scented products like plug-ins, wax melts, room sprays and candles create indoor air pollution. Removing these products from your home or even just using them less often improves indoor air quality and reduces allergens.
The Healthy Homes Workshops cover many simple ways to maintain a healthier living space and to help keep your home in good condition. Attending a workshop can help give you the confidence and motivation to make some simple and inexpensive changes that can have a big impact on the health and comfort of your household.
