When Raw Sewage Invades Your Home: The Hidden Health Dangers That Make DIY Cleanup a Life-Threatening Mistake
Sewage backup is one of the most dangerous disasters that can strike your home, yet many homeowners underestimate the serious health risks involved. It’s a serious health risk that can expose you to harmful bacteria, toxic gases, and dangerous mold. Sewage water contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that can pose serious health threats.
The Invisible Army of Pathogens in Sewage Water
Bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella are found in sewage. They can cause stomach problems and skin infections. But the dangers extend far beyond these well-known culprits. In the murky waters of a sewage backup, parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium can lurk. These microscopic organisms can cause parasitic infections when exposed to contaminated water.
This contaminated water contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause illnesses like hepatitis, gastroenteritis, and infections. Even minimal exposure can lead to health issues. Here are a few of the most common bacteria that are found in sewage and what they can do the human body: E. Coli – Causes abdominal cramping, diarrhea and occasionally death. Acanthomoeba – Causes eye, nose, throat and ear infections.
Respiratory Hazards: The Toxic Air You Can’t See
The health dangers of sewage backup aren’t limited to direct contact. Sewage backups don’t just bring health risks through direct contact; they can also affect your respiratory system. When sewage overflows, it can release harmful gases and particulate matter into the air. These pollutants can be particularly hazardous to individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma.
Another danger of cleaning up sewage is the fumes and gasses released from sewage. There are also a lot of different gasses that are toxic to humans if breathed in, and sewage releases several of them. Among them can be found carbon monoxide, ammonia, and methane. In low doses, these gasses can cause one to feel nauseous or dizzy. However, these gasses will result in death if too much of them is breathed in, so it’s crucial to not inhale as much of the gasses as possible.
Why DIY Sewage Cleanup Is a Dangerous Gamble
When faced with a sewage backup, many homeowners’ first instinct is to grab cleaning supplies and tackle the mess themselves. This impulse, while understandable, can be life-threatening. While some homeowners might be tempted to handle the mess themselves, DIY sewage cleanup is not only dangerous, but it can also lead to health risks and costly mistakes. Before you grab a mop and gloves, let’s explore why sewage cleanup should be left to the professionals and the horror stories that could unfold if it isn’t.
Contact with sewage without wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and following proper procedures is a serious threat to your health. Even with the best intentions, DIY sewage cleanup often results in these common mistakes: Inadequate protection: Without proper personal protective equipment (PPE), you’re directly exposed to dangerous pathogens.
The Hidden Electrical and Structural Dangers
Beyond the biological hazards, sewage backups present immediate physical dangers that untrained individuals may not recognize. However, the greatest danger is not the risk of disease but the risk of electrocution or explosion. Never enter a flooded area or light matches until the utility companies have shut off the electric and gas service.
Electrical hazards: Water and electricity don’t mix. Sewage flooding can create shock risks or even fire hazards if it comes into contact with electrical systems. Cleaning up sewage without professional-grade equipment can leave behind moisture, causing long-term damage that you might not see until it’s too late.
The Mold Multiplication Factor
One of the most overlooked consequences of improper sewage cleanup is secondary mold growth. Mold growth is another risk when attempting DIY sewage cleanup. Mold exposure can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms, especially in children and people with compromised immune systems. Flooding provides ideal conditions for mold to develop as it only needs moisture, organic material, and optimal temperature. What’s worse – it can grow within just 24 to 48 hours of the incident.
Why Professional Sewage Cleanup Is Essential
Professional restoration companies like Flood Guys WI understand the complexities of sewage cleanup that go far beyond what meets the eye. Renowned for our reliability and professionalism, we are a trusted restoration company dedicated to restoring properties efficiently and effectively. Located in Wisconsin and serving the Milwaukee metro area, Flood Guys, LLC, located in Franksville, WI, is a local-owned business providing restoration services for biohazard/trauma, fire, water, smoke and mold.
Professional restoration technicians use the proper equipment and follow standard safety procedures and remediation techniques that typical homeowners would not normally access. In a nutshell, here’s what professionals do to restore your property: … Sanitize the area using specialized cleaners and procedures; this helps eliminate bacteria and mold to prevent health risks and preserve infrastructure and belongings.
When dealing with sewage contamination, professional Sewage Damage Cleanup Greendale, Wi services provide the expertise and equipment necessary to handle these dangerous situations safely. We utilize advanced restoration technology, including high-powered water extractors, industrial-grade dehumidifiers, and air movers, to efficiently tackle damage. Our state-of-the-art equipment allows us to dry properties faster and more effectively than traditional methods, ensuring a thorough restoration process and reducing the risk of further issues.
The Immediate Steps You Should Take
If you experience a sewage backup, your safety depends on taking the right immediate actions. The first thing you should do is leave the affected area. It’s risky to touch or be near this water. If you experience a sewage backup, stay out of the area and call professionals immediately. Stay out of the affected area and call a professional restoration company immediately.
Contact a professional sewage cleanup service as soon as possible. These experts have the training and equipment to safely clean and disinfect the affected area, reducing the risk of health hazards. Flood Guys provides 24/7 emergency restoration services for more than just flood damage. Whether you’re dealing with water, fire, mold, or other disasters, our expert team is ready to respond around the clock. We offer comprehensive solutions, ensuring swift action to minimize damage and restore your property with reliable, professional care—anytime you need us.
Protecting Your Family’s Health and Your Investment
The longer it sits, the worse the damage gets, leading to expensive repairs and long-term health issues. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of diseases involving sewage and other serious health concerns. The decision to attempt DIY cleanup isn’t just about immediate costs—it’s about protecting your family’s health and your property’s long-term value.
When it comes to sewage cleanup, it’s not just about cleaning up the visible mess—it’s about safeguarding your health and home from hidden dangers. DIY attempts may seem like a cost-saving solution, but they can quickly turn into a horror story you’ll regret.
Sewage backup represents one of the most serious threats to your home and health. The combination of dangerous pathogens, toxic gases, electrical hazards, and potential for long-term structural damage makes professional intervention not just recommended, but essential. Sewage cleanup is an extremely dangerous process that can have many consequences if the average Destin citizen tries to clean it up themselves. Trained professionals know how to safely and effectively care for it without getting sick or leaving behind any contamination.
When sewage invades your home, don’t gamble with your family’s health or your property’s future. Contact certified professionals who have the training, equipment, and expertise to restore your home safely and completely.