Christian Childers was a resident of Englewood, Florida, who unfortunately passed away due to living in a mold-infested home. According to reports, Childers, a 26 years old Florida man, had been residing in the toxic mold-contaminated home and had repeatedly contacted the landlord and the city to resolve the issue. However, the mold problem persisted after Hurricane Ian, ultimately leading to Childers’ untimely death.
Mold can be highly hazardous to one’s health. It can cause various symptoms, including respiratory issues, allergies, and immune system problems. It is not uncommon for people living in mold-infested homes to experience worsening pre-existing conditions or the development of new health problems.
Childers’ friends and family are understandably devastated by his loss. They are calling for change to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. They had stated that the landlord and the city should have addressed the mold problem long before it became a matter of life and death.
Problems Started After Hurricane Ian
Kendra Elliott, Childers’ fiancé, says the problems began after Hurricane Ian. Mold began growing after experiencing flooding and a lack of power for weeks. Childers’ health got increasingly worse after a pipe burst in the home.
Kendra went further to explain. He went into anaphylactic shock, leading to cardiac arrest, and was later clinically pronounced dead.
Black Toxic Mold on wall and baseboard in Englewood, Florida after Hurricane Ian.
Is Mold a Common Problem for Residents in Englewood, Florida?
Mold is a common problem for all, not just residents of Englewood, Florida, due to the state’s high humidity and frequent precipitation. A study by the Florida Department of Health found that water damage and mold were responsible for many respiratory illness cases in the state. In the survey, around 10% of the state’s population had experienced health problems due to mold exposure. The most common symptoms were coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
Mold is Present in 50% of Florida Homes
Multiple studies found that mold was present in approximately 50% of homes. The study also found that homes with high levels of mold were more likely to have residents with respiratory symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
In addition to the health problems associated with mold, it can also cause significant damage to homes. Reports indicate that the estimated cost of repairing water damage and mold in homes is around $2.5 billion annually.
Importance of Checking for Mold Growth
Mold thrives in damp, humid environments and can grow on various surfaces, including walls, ceilings, and floors. If left unchecked, it can spread quickly and cause significant damage to the structure of a home. Homeowners and landlords must proactively identify and address any potential mold issues to prevent them from becoming significant problems.
Taking several steps can prevent mold growth in homes. One of the most effective ways is to control moisture levels by fixing leaks or plumbing issues and using a dehumidifier. It is also vital to ensure the home is well-ventilated, especially in areas prone to moisture build-ups, such as the bathroom and kitchen. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help prevent mold growth, as can mold-resistant products.
Preventing Tragedies from Mold Damage
The tragic death of Christian Childers serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mold issues in homes. Homeowners and landlords in Florida need to be proactive in preventing and addressing mold issues to protect the health and well-being of those living in the house and avoid costly damage to the property.
If mold is already present in a home, it is crucial to address the issue as soon as possible. It may involve removing, cleaning, disinfecting the affected areas, and repairing any damage caused by the mold. Depending on the extent of the problem, it may be necessary to hire a professional mold remediation company to handle the job.
Englewood Florida Man, Christian Childers, tragically passes away due to exposure to Toxic Mold from Hurricane Ian. OTM Restoration is in the Englewood, Florida area and throughout the State.
OTM Restoration Mold and Water Damage Services
OTM Restoration Mold and Water Damage Services provides 24-hour emergency flood damage restoration. We are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to respond quickly and effectively to your residential or commercial flooding. Our certified technicians can begin the clean-up process while securing your property from further damage. We specialize in water damage restoration, mold removal, and odor control services following a flood in your home or business.
For a free consultation and quote, contact us at 800-416-5986.
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