A sewer backup in your basement can be costly and bring serious health hazards into the home. Sewage contains bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses, which makes dealing with the flooding yourself a health risk. So, what do you do when you have a sewage emergency?
Calling a professional restoration company like PuroClean Certified Restoration is your best way to deal with a sewage flood in your basement. Moisture may hide behind walls and further problems like mold growth can follow. However, here’s what you can do to mitigate the damage in your basement before our restoration team arrives:
■ Evacuate the flooded area. Sewage contaminants are hazardous to pets as well.
■ Turn off electrical power in the flooded area. Electrical wires or appliances might come in contact with standing water or wet materials.
■ If the main circuit breaker is in the basement, be careful. If you can’t safely turn off the power, don’t go near electrical devices.
■ Wear protective clothing like a facemask, eyeglasses, gloves, and rubber boots before walking through sewage water.
■ Shut off the valve for the main water line of your home.
■ Notify your insurance company about the sewage backup. Remember that sewer backups are not covered by standard homeowners insurance, unless you’ve purchased extra endorsements for sewers and drains.
■ Notify your municipal authority or sewer department if your home is connected to a public sewer.
■ Don’t use the water supply system in your home until the backup problem is fixed – don’t flush toilets or drain tubs and sinks.
■ Open windows or doors to let fresh air in and ventilate the area.
In the event that your basement has flooded with sewage, you need to dry it as soon as possible. However, your family’s health and safety should be your top priority. For professional fire, water and mold restoration services, contact your trusted PuroClean Certified Restoration in Springfield, Missouri.