Flooding your crawlspace or basement can be a nightmare. Although flooding can be a hassle, many people are more concerned about the potential for damage to their basements or crawlspaces. Floodwaters can carry pathogens, including mold and raw sewage contamination. These could cause health problems that last a lifetime. Although anyone can be affected by flooding, pets and children are most at risk. Flooding can also pose a risk to those with immunodeficiency, elderly people, and pregnant women. These health hazards and ways to avoid them can help you keep your family safe in the event of a flooding or sewage backup.

What Are The Health Risks Of Flooding?

1. Mold
Flooding can lead to mold, which is one of the leading health hazards. Mold can appear after water damage but is more common after groundwater flooding. Mold exposure can cause allergic reactions, such as watery eyes and skin rashes, sneezing, and watery eyes. Asthma attacks can also be triggered by mold. Mold is more common in children and elderly, as well as those with immunodeficiencies. People with allergies or respiratory conditions such as asthma may have more severe symptoms. To prevent mold growth, dry any water-damaged areas in 48 hours. Non-porous surfaces can be cleaned with warm water and soap. After that, disinfect the area with bleach and water. Dry it. To dry porous surfaces, use fans or dehumidifiers. Once they are dry, disinfect. To dry fabrics, wash and dry them. Mold can be caused by flooding. Remove the water immediately and dry the area. Next, you’ll need to get rid of the contaminated materials. You will need to get rid of any mold-covered drywall, wall studs or flooring. Also, personal items such as furniture, fabrics and personal items are included. Use a disinfectant to clean the area and then rebuild as needed.

2. Consuming Contaminated Water
Water can be contaminated by bacteria and parasites from flooding and sewage backups. Even clean water can be contaminated if it is left for a long time. Floodwaters can cause water contamination in the home, so keep pets and children away from them. Floods can also contaminate water supplies. Follow boil or no-drink warnings. Although contaminants in water can affect anyone, infants, pregnant women, nursing mothers, elderly and people with immunodeficiency are most at risk. Bottled water is best for drinking, cooking, or making baby formula. Use bottled water for bathing babies who are very young. Small amounts of contaminated water can cause symptoms in children and pets. The individual contaminants can cause symptoms to vary. Most common symptoms of contaminated drinking water include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomachache. Groundwater flooding, although less likely than other forms of flooding, may contain other contaminants. Groundwater may also be contaminated by gasoline, lead, pesticides, or other poisons. For proper disposal and cleanup, call a water damage restoration firm if you suspect floodwaters may contain any of these poisons.

3. Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide poisoning is another health concern from flooding. Carbon monoxide poisoning is another health risk from flooding. It is colorless and odorless, so it is almost impossible to detect by yourself. Portable generators can be used to power equipment, particularly if electricity is cut off or knocked out. As a byproduct, they often produce carbon monoxide which can be deadly if inhaled at high levels. To prevent carbon monoxide buildup indoors, it is best to avoid running generators in an enclosed space. You may feel faint or lightheaded if you are feeling dizzy or lightheaded. You may also experience headaches, disorientation, or confusion as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. The flesh beneath your fingernails may turn red from high levels of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide poisoning is most common in pets, children and seniors. They are more likely to not notice symptoms. Installing and checking a carbon monoxide detector is a good idea. The unit should be placed near your bedroom to ensure you hear it while sleeping. You should replace the batteries every six month if you have a battery-operated device.

4. Cross-Contamination
Cross-contamination of household goods is another risk from flooding. Wash all metal and plastic items that have been damaged by floodwaters, including kitchenware and utensils. Wooden utensils should be thrown away, as they can absorb contaminants. You should also consider getting rid of any porous toys for children, such as wooden blocks. Baby bottles, nipples and pacifiers that were exposed to floodwaters should be thrown away, particularly if they have been sitting for a long time or contain raw sewage. Towels, pillows, and stuffed animal bedding that has been contaminated should be washed. You can dry books and other paper items but it might take more effort than you think.

What Are The Dangers Of Raw Sewage?

Raw sewage is a threat to human health in addition to floods. Raw sewage backups can contain fecal matter as well as additional pathogens such Escherichia coli (more commonly known by E. coli). Wear rubber boards and protective gear if your basement is flooded by raw sewage. Avoid drinking or eating anything that has been contaminated by the water. After a sewage backup, disinfect the area with a disinfectant. One cup of bleach to one gallon water is enough. Basements and crawlspaces are the most likely places to see sewage backups.
There are many dangers associated with raw sewage in basements. You will find sewage under or inside your dryer, washer, hot water tank and furnace. If you have a sewage backup, make sure to inspect these appliances. They can cause illness in pets or children if not properly cleaned up.

Do You Need Help Cleaning Up A Flood?

There are certified specialists near you like 911 Restoration of New Orleans. Call us at (504) 457-7929 now for a free visual inspection and immediate Flood Damage Restoration.