Minimizing The Health Risks of Water Damage

Česky: Pitná voda - kohoutek Español: Agua potable (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you have experienced flooding in your property then you may already know that aside from the physical water damage, you will also need to pay heed to the potential health risks that it brings with it. There are a number of ways that you can minimize not only the extent of the damage, but also the hazard to your health.

When flooding is brought about by natural causes such as heavy rain or an overflowing river, then there will be a very high likelihood that the flood water is contaminated from mixing with water from sewage and drainage systems. This type of water is known as 'grey' water and is rife with bacteria and micro-organisms. That means it is very important to ensure that all harmful bacteria is killed and that the area is treated to ensure that the germs do not spread following the flood. Stagnant water it is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and will also attract insects like fleas and ticks all of which can spread disease, so it is essential that the problem is handled appropriately.

If the flooding is down to burst pipes or water supply problems, then it is not to say that contamination won't occur. In my experience, it is always best to assume that the flood water is contaminated which is why I would never attempt to clean up flooding on my own. I always call in a professional who is equipped to deal with the potential problems.

Some precautions you can take are to not drink anything other than bottled water until local authorities give the all clear and to ensure your water supply has been decontaminated. Never underestimate the health risks that come hand in hand with flooding.

Related articles

• The Hidden Danger Of Water Damage
• What Is Water Damage?
• Dealing With Sewage Safely
• How to Prepare Your Home Against Flooding
• The True Cost Of Fire or Smoke Damage

The Threat Posed By Sewage Spills

English: Protective Clothing. Workers in protective clothing to guard against contamination from hazardous waste. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Just hearing the word 'sewage' conjures up vivid images of disgusting, sludgy matter. We all know exactly what it is and where it comes from, so it is horrifying when a burst sewage main means that you are faced with a sewage spill inside of your home. It's not just the fact that it is human excrement, it is also the smell and yet so many are still careless when it comes to cleaning it up. The fact is, sewage can pose a major health risk to us. It contains a multitude of pathogens and allergens which can transmit a variety of diseases.

Sewage is actually considered to be a bio-hazard and it must be handled very carefully. A sewage spill is not something you would attempt on your own. It requires protective clothing and specialist disposal procedures. Exposure to sewage can result in chronic respiratory illnesses and many other viral, fungal, bacterial and parasitic health conditions. Contact with raw sewage or sewage contaminated waters can cause infections on the skin and ingestion of these materials can result in serious stomach illnesses. The many bacteria and viruses which live in raw sewage are also able to enter the blood stream via the smallest break in the skin which includes any cuts or grazes. These illnesses can be severe and in many cases fatal. This is why it is important not to take any risks where sewage is involved.

I will admit to being overly cautious about my health. Whenever I have experienced flooding, which used to be fairly regularly when we lived in Georgia, I would always assume that the water was potentially contaminated with sewage. I would rather call in the professionals who have the equipment and protective clothing than risk contracting one of the many diseases that sewage contamination is linked to.