Wet weather causes mold concerns in R.I

This soggy start to summer could be doing more than cutting into your cookout time. It could also be fueling a hidden health hazard growing in your own home.

Eyewitness news checked in with a local expert to find out how you can protect your family and your home from this unseen danger.

"Mold and mildew can grow within 24 to 48 hours.", said Mike Deffley, a mold expert for 1-800 Water Damage.

Deffley said mold needs two things to grow. A food source like wood or paper, as well as moisture.

Deffley also said the first step too keep your home mold free is to prevent water from getting into your house. Also, make sure your gutters keep water away from your foundation. Bathrooms and laundry rooms should also be properly vented. Deffley suggests that If water does get in, clean it up immediately. Running a dehumidifier is also a good idea to help keep the moisture out.

Mold can thrive behind the walls and out of sight... Which means a surface cleaning may not be enough. Diagnosing and properly dealing with a mold problem can be a complicated matter, so you should call an expert at the first sign of trouble.