
While you technically can attempt to clean up smaller amounts of sewage on your own, it’s a dangerous undertaking. Since there are serious health risks involved, it’s best left to the professionals. If you experience a sewage disaster, it’s most likely caused by a backup, a leak from a clogged pipe, heavy rainfall, or a sewer line issue. These situations can quickly escalate, leading to extensive property damage and potential health hazards.
Sewage water contains bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can cause serious illnesses. The longer sewage sits, the more dangerous it becomes – especially with contamination risks. Some Vancouver WA property owners experience “black water,” which is the most dangerous category of contaminated water. Black water can carry disease-causing pathogens and pose severe health risks to anyone who comes into contact with it.
Professional sewage cleanup is an absolute necessity in these situations, regardless of how much has spilled. If you experience a sewage leak, you’ll need removal of the contaminated water and disinfection of affected areas. At BCC Restoration, we use specialized equipment and EPA-approved disinfectants to make sure that your property is safe and sanitary after a sewage disaster around your property.
Our team of IICRC-certified technicians has the expertise and equipment to handle sewage cleanup efficiently and safely. We remove contaminated water, deodorize, and sanitize the affected areas so your property is restored to a safe and healthy condition.
But before the pros come in, we’re sharing what you can do after a sewage leak in this guide.
What to Do After a Sewage Leak Disaster
When faced with a sewage disaster, time is of the essence. Here are some immediate steps you can take:
- Take a quick look at the situation (from a safe distance).
- Wear protective gear to protect yourself.
- Turn off the main water supply.
- Shut off electricity to affected areas.
- Get proper ventilation by opening windows (if possible).
- Remove uncontaminated items from the area.
- Call restoration professionals as soon as you can.
Professional vs DIY Sewage Clean Up
While there are some initial steps you as a homeowner can take, professional intervention is a must for thorough and safe sewage cleanup. Also, there may be hidden damage that only the pros can identify.
What you should leave to the professionals (like BCC Restoration):
- Structural and material restoration: Our expertise extends to repairing and restoring any structures and materials damaged by water or sewage.
- Contaminated water and sewage extraction: Our team will efficiently remove any contaminated water and sewage.
- Contaminated material disposal: We handle the proper disposal of all contaminated materials.
- In-depth cleaning and sanitization: We’ll meticulously clean and disinfect the affected areas.
- Moisture control and drying: To ward off mold, we’ll implement drying and dehumidification techniques.
- Mold prevention: We’ll implement strategies to increase air circulation and reduce moisture.
- Odor elimination: Our professional techniques will address and neutralize unpleasant sewage-related odors.
What you can take care of yourself:
- Identifying disposal items: Determine which food items should be discarded for your safety.
- Clearing the area: Remove uncontaminated furniture and loose items.
- Prioritizing personal safety: Keep children, pets, and vulnerable individuals away from the affected area.
- Using protective gear: Put on rubber gloves, boots, and eye protection when entering the space.
- Practicing strict hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly and launder clothes separately after any contact.
- Salvaging canned goods: Clean and sanitize processes for undamaged canned foods.
How long does water damage last?
The longer the water sits, the more extensive and expensive the damage becomes. Within 24 to 48 hours, mold can begin to grow. This is where structural damage starts! Water damage from sewage disasters can have long-lasting effects if not addressed promptly and properly.
Emergency Sewage Cleanup in Vancouver WA
At BCC Restoration, we understand the urgency of these situations. Sewage emergencies don’t wait for convenient times to occur. So our 24/7 emergency response team makes sure that we can begin the cleanup and restoration process as quickly as possible. We’ll be at your door in under 90 minutes after your initial call.
Our team is ready to respond, equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to handle even the most challenging sewage disasters. BCC Restoration’s goal is to minimize the disruption to your life and restore your property to its pre-disaster condition as quickly as possible.
Don’t delay cleanup – the longer you wait, the worse the damage becomes! Give us a call today or fill out our contact form here on this page.
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