There’s no household disaster grosser than a sewage backup, and when one happens, it needs to be dealt with immediately to prevent harmful fumes, mold and mildew, and water damage. It is especially important in basements where raw sewage from the mainline is most likely to back up.
It is always a good idea to consult a professional for sewage spill cleanups. However, if you choose to handle a small spill you know to be safe, here is how you can safely clean up after it.
Understand the Risks
Raw sewage can contain harmful contaminants, disease-causing organisms and cause respiratory issues. Without proper safety equipment and knowledge on dealing with raw sewage, there is always a risk of illness and even death.
Also, there is a chance water can come in contact with your electrical system, and this can be very dangerous. Call your utility companies and ensure your electricity and gas are shut off.
Respond Quickly
When a sewage spill occurs, there is no time to waste; damage to building materials and belongings occurs quickly. Immediately after the spill is discovered, inspect the building to determine the scope of the job, and decide if you are capable of dealing with the spill on your own.
Clear and Drain
If you decide to handle the spill on your own, remember to wear proper safety gear, including eye protection, rubber boots and gloves, and protective clothing. The first thing to do is to clean your furniture and all obstructions and drain the excess water.
A good way to drain excess water is to use a wet vacuum. Always ensure it is plugged into a grounded outlet. Suction out excess water and dispose of it in a toilet.
Clean and Sanitize
All surfaces affected by the spill will need scrubbed down with hot water and a low sudsing detergent and rinsed off with more. Afterward, these surfaces will need to be sanitized. Wipe them down with a mixture of one cup of bleach and one gallon of water.
Dispose of Non-Salvageable Items
Some items cannot be salvaged and will need to be disposed of. Carpeting, furniture, bedding, and other fabrics are some of the most common. However, it is possible some valuable items may be able to be salvaged by a professional restoration company.
Consider Hiring Professionals
There are many benefits to hiring a professional water restoration company. First, it can protect you and your family from the risks posed by raw sewage. They can safely clean your home and identify the scope of damage to ensure everything is cleaned.
Additionally, professionals have many more tools at their disposal to clean and restore your home and belongings. They can clean in spaces others cannot, such as HVAC systems, and potentially restore items that would otherwise need to be disposed of.
Finally, often you won’t have to spend a dime. Many insurance companies will pay for all the damages caused by sewage spills.
Final Thoughts
Sewage spills are unpleasant to handle, but they require attention to ensure the safety of you and your family as well as prevent further damage. But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it alone. Help from a cleaning professional is only a call away.
Contact Us
For more information or for help with a sewage spill, call RestorePro at 1-800-847-0114. Or connect with us on Facebook.
