Contaminated Water Damage Clean up precautions for flooded basements

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

Here is a guide on what to do if you have a flood damage from a contaminated water source also known as gray or black water. When your home or business suffers from a flood, its important to know what type of water contamination you have so you can make decisions and take precautions for salvaging your belongings while staying safe until help arrives:

Gray water: Water that is slightly contaminated, such as water from a clean water source that leaked through a ceiling, or clean water that was left untreated. Gray water has bacteria and other contaminates beginning to grow.

Black water:  is water that is highly contaminated, filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals, viruses and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding, or any type of natural disaster. Black water should never be handled by the homeowner and should always be handled by a trained certified professional.

What to do until help arrives:

• avoid all contat with sewage, and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items


• do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas


• do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air


• do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread to contaminants


• discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

When you have a water damage, don't leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Perry Hall White Marsh. We are certified in Water damage, biohazard clean up and mold remediations. We also accept all insurance companies.   Call 410-529-1664 for more details.