Air conditioners and dehumidifiers can be helpful during the summer months, especially in parts of the country that are prone to heat waves. This year, however, experts are predicting that the combination of record breaking heat and the potential for extreme storms during hurricane season put unprepared households in the Mid-Atlantic at an increased risk of developing toxic molds.

The Insurance Journal, a bi-monthly collection of articles from the Academy of Insurers, reported that residents in Maryland especially at risk of exposure to damaging molds, as the water table is prone to rise in the highly coastal state.

Toxic mold can lead to respiratory issues like asthma in those exposed, especially for young children in the early stages of immune system development.

The Baltimore Sun has reported that local humidity levels have been extremely hazardous of late. According to the source, four Maryland residents died of complications brought on from the heat wave affecting the region. The record heat has also contributed to widespread power outages throughout Maryland, Washington D.C. and Virginia.

Aside from being a health hazard,  Maryland Insurance Commissioner Therese Goldsmith said damage caused by mold isn't covered by all types of homeowners insurance, the Journal reported.

The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene released a list of ways residences can remove small traces of mold, but warn that in many cases, a professional may need to be called. Keeping basements well ventilated and controlling moisture levels in the home will go a long way to preventing toxic molds. 

Related posts:

1. Fighting mold at home could help those suffering from allergies
2. Hazardous mold linked to asthma development finally identified by scientists
3. Keeping humidity levels in check is a priority this summer
4. Increase of wildfires makes breathing difficult for asthma sufferers
5. Indiana students getting educated about asthma and allergies