24/7 Emergency Service
CLEANING SEWAGE BACKUPS AND CONTAMINATED WATER
5/25/2016 (Permalink)
RAW SEWAGE BACK UP IN BASEMENT BATHROOM. HOMEOWNER CONTRACTED C-DIFF AFTER ATTEMPTING TO CLEAN CONTAMINATED AREAS.
Severe rainstorms and floods can put a strain on sewers and septic systems. Large volumes of storm water and ground water entering sewage systems can overwhelm them, causing back-ups into basements and on to private property. Blockages, such as tree roots, in sewer systems can also cause back-ups. Your health can be impacted if a sewage back-up occurs in your home. Sewage back-ups can contaminate your private drinking well water and pollute surface water like lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams, as well as reservoirs used for drinking water.
Can I Get Sick From A Sewage Back-Up In My House?
Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and other germs that can cause disease and make a contaminated house unfit for living. The health risks associated with sewage are dependent upon the amount of sewage, the types of germs that are in it, the amount of time it has been in contact with materials in the home, and how much and how long an occupant was exposed. The most common illnesses are generally gastrointestinal distress, skin rashes, and infections.
WHAT TO DO WHEN DEALING WITH CONTAMINATED WATER AND SEWAGE
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
WHAT NOT TO DO WHEN DEALING WITH CONTAMINATED WATER AND SEWAGE
- Don’t spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
- Don’t turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
- Don’t use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
- Don’t use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.
SERVPRO of Mount Ephraim Bellmawr is trained to safely and effectively remove contaminated water and sewage from your home or business. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Mount Ephraim Bellmawr can help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and businesses.