Spring has sprung.

As we know, April is known for its showers and lots of rain may mean water gets into places we don’t want it to.

Few things are as concerning as finding or smelling mold in your residence.

For some people, mold can trigger an allergic reaction and lead to respiratory problems, especially for those with compromised immune systems.

For you to have a healthiest home possible, it’s important for you to prevent mold and promptly control it if it appears.

Molds are living organisms that grow and thrive on moisture.

To prevent their formation, keep your home dry.

Promptly fix leaks and quickly eliminate any other source of wetness in your home.

Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep your home’s humidity level below 50 percent.

Two areas that tend to be “wetter” than others are bathrooms and kitchens.

Make sure these areas are properly ventilated.

Mold has a distinctive musty smell, which can help you locate any problems.

You can also look for mold in high-moisture areas, like around faucets or showers.

Water stains, odd coloring or fuzzy growth on surfaces are also common signs of mold.

The amount of mold you find will determine your next steps.

If you find mold in an area smaller than 10 square feet, you can safely remedy the situation yourself.

To do that, fix water problems as quickly as possible.

Completely dry all areas.

Use detergent, water, gloves and a scrubbing brush to remove mold from hard surfaces and then dry the area.

You may have to discard porous materials, like ceiling tiles, if they get mold on them as mold can grow inside of those surfaces.

If your moldy surface is larger than 10 square feet, you should consult the Environmental Protection Agency’s guide, “Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings,” which is available online at https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-remediation-schools-and-commercial-buildings-guide.

If you hire a professional to help you with mold removal, check references and make sure they follow government guidelines for proper mold removal.

Additional information on preventing and controlling mold is available on https://www.epa.gov/ or at the Clark County Extension office.

Shonda Johnston is the Clark County Extension agent for family and consumer sciences. She can be reached at 859-744-4682 or by email at shonda.johnston@uky.edu.