What You Need To Know About Black Water

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has experienced serious flooding, you’re probably facing extensive water damage. Flood water is considered black water, which means you will need to call in experienced remediation specialists who understand the best practices for restoration to handle the cleanup. This is because black water poses a serious threat.

What Is Black Water?

During a flood, sewers and toilets can overflow, pipes can burst and flood waters can pick up any number of contaminants as they flow through an area. This contamination with feces, urine and other dangerous pollutants are what make flood water “black.” Any stagnant water that has been around long enough to support the growth of harmful bacterial is also considered black.

Why Is It Dangerous?

Contaminated flood water carries dangerous bacteria that can cause humans and animals to become sick. This can occur from accidentally swallowing water or having it come into contact with small wounds or scratches. This includes the flood water saturating possessions after the bulk of the flooding has receded, which is why you should not attempt your own water damage cleanup. Diseases that can be caused by black water include the following:

• Hepatitis

• Gastroenteritis

• Giardia

• Campylobacteriosis

• Typhoid

• Cholera

What Should You Do About It?

Because flood water is considered black water, you shouldn’t attempt to clean your own home after a serious flood. Contact a professional remediation service to handle it for you. After its representatives have assessed the situation, they will begin the process of extracting the remaining water, disinfecting your home and drying it out with industrial equipment. It’s critical this process happens quickly to avoid irreversible damage and mold growth.

When you’re facing water damage after a flood, don’t endanger your family’s health by trying to clean it up yourself. Hire a trained professional who has the knowledge and specialized equipment to handle the damage safely and effectively.