The short answer
What Makes Flood Water Contaminated
Flood water is not clean water. It typically contains sewage from overwhelmed sewer systems, which introduces bacteria and viruses. It can also carry chemicals from garages, sheds, or industrial areas, including pesticides, cleaners, and fuels. Debris like broken glass and sharp metal often gets mixed in as well. This combination classifies most flood water as hazardous black water.
The contamination level depends on the water source and what it flows over. Water from a river overflow may have different hazards than water from a municipal sewer backup. However, you cannot tell by looking at it. All flood water in your home should be considered unsafe and handled with extreme caution to protect your health.
Immediate Health Risks from Contact
Touching flood water with bare skin can lead to infections, rashes, or chemical burns. Open wounds or cuts provide a direct pathway for harmful bacteria to enter your body. This contact can cause illnesses like gastroenteritis, characterized by vomiting and diarrhea. If you have any contact, wash the area thoroughly with soap and clean water as soon as possible.
If flood water gets in your eyes, nose, or mouth, the risk of illness increases. Swallowing even a small amount can lead to serious gastrointestinal infections. Watch for symptoms like fever, stomach cramps, or nausea in the days following exposure. If you feel unwell after contact with flood water, you should see a doctor and mention the potential exposure.
Risks from Breathing Contaminated Air
Flood water can also make the air unsafe. As water sits and is disturbed, it can aerosolize contaminants, creating a fine mist. Inhaling this mist allows pathogens and mold spores to enter your lungs. This is a particular concern during cleanup activities like pumping or moving water, which agitate the surface and release particles into the air.
Standing water promotes rapid mold growth, which can begin within 24 to 48 hours. In Germantown's humid subtropical climate with hot humid summers and cool winters, this process can accelerate. Inhaling mold spores can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory problems, especially for those with asthma or weakened immune systems. Proper drying is critical to prevent this secondary air quality hazard.
Essential Safety Precautions to Take
Always assume flood water is dangerous. Wear protective gear if you need to be near it. This includes waterproof boots, rubber gloves, and safety goggles to shield your skin and eyes. For any work that disturbs the water, an N95 respirator mask is recommended to protect you from inhaling harmful particles or mold spores.
Keep children and pets completely away from flooded areas. Their smaller size and different behaviors make them more vulnerable to the hazards present. Do not use fans that blow air over contaminated surfaces, as this can spread contaminants. Turn off electricity to the affected area at the breaker panel if it is safe to do so, to prevent electrocution risks.
Why Professional Cleanup Is Necessary
Due to the severe health risks, professional water damage cleanup is strongly advised. The pros have the training and equipment to safely handle contaminated water and materials. They follow specific protocols for extraction, disinfection, and drying to restore your home to a safe condition. Their process aims to remove the contamination source and prevent lingering mold growth.
Attempting a DIY cleanup of flood water often leads to incomplete drying and hidden contamination. This can result in persistent odors, structural damage, and long-term mold problems that affect air quality. The pros use industrial-grade equipment like air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to properly dry the structure. This thorough approach helps ensure your home is safe to live in again.
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Call Now (240) 261-5117Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I accidentally touch flood water?
Wash the area immediately with soap and clean, running water. Pay special attention to any cuts or scrapes. Monitor the site for signs of redness, swelling, or rash. If you develop any symptoms like fever or diarrhea, contact a doctor and inform them about the exposure to flood water.
Can I stay in my home during flood cleanup?
It is often unsafe to stay, especially during the initial extraction phase. Airborne contaminants and mold spores pose respiratory risks. If extensive flooding has occurred, you may need to find alternative lodging until the area is dried and sanitized. Always follow the safety guidance provided by the water damage professionals on site.
Does insurance cover flood damage cleanup?
Coverage depends entirely on the specific cause and the details of your policy. Standard homeowners insurance typically does not cover flooding from external sources like rivers or groundwater. You need to review your policy or contact your agent. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
More questions and answers
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