Help! There is Contaminated Water in My House!

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage is Common

Water damage is one of the most common and serious emergencies your property can experience. Whether the cause is from a storm, flood, weakened roof, HVAC leak, overflowing appliances, or sewage backups.  It can be overwhelming and distressing to address a disaster on your property, which can lead to procrastinating taking action. However, it is important to act quickly when it is a water loss to avoid further damaging your property or risking the health of the occupants. Our team at SERVPRO® features skilled IICRC-certified technicians ready to help and guide you through the steps you should take. 

The Categories of Water

According to the IICRC standards, there are three categories of water damage. Category 1 water includes “clean water” and are caused by supply lines. Typically, the water is fairly easy to dry by a professional restoration company and there is less likely to be harmful, secondary damage. The next category is “grey water”. It consists of water that comes from toilet bowls, discharge from appliances, and sump pump backups. With category 2 water, there is a possibility of microorganisms, which is the reason why immediate action and sanitization is necessary. Lastly, there is category 3 which is “black water”, or grossly contaminated, harmful water. This category is the most extreme and extensive, and requires instant mitigation.

The Do’s and Do Not’s of Categories 2 and 3 Water

• DO: Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage
• DON’T: Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas
• DO: Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items
• DON’T: Use household fans to dry the structure, thereby spreading the contaminants.
• DO: Turn off the electricity in the home by switching off the circuit breakers and unplugging devices when it is safe to do so.
• DON’T: Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminants in the air.
• DO: Shut off the water at the valves.
• DON’T: Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated area.

SERVPRO® of Augusta South / Wilkes & Burke Counties can handle any water loss you may experience at your home. Remember, we are “Here to help.®” If you are in need assistance, call us at 706-843-1990.