Protecting Your Health and Property with SERVPRO®: Understanding the Contamination of Flood Water

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

When your building falls victim to Category 3 floodwater, safeguarding the well-being of everyone involved is paramount.

The sight of floodwater from a storm may not immediately evoke thoughts of contamination, but the reality is that this water is classified as Category 3, or "dirty" water. When floodwaters intrude upon your commercial property in Seattle, WA, addressing the aftermath involves more than just repairing the visible water damage. Let's shed light on the importance of recognizing Category 3 water contamination and explain why homeowners and business owners in West Seattle and Burien should turn to SERVPRO® for expert assistance.

Understanding Category 3 Water Contamination: Category 3 water is characterized by its high level of contamination and poses serious health risks. It may contain:

1. Dangerous Microbes, Bacteria, or Fungi
2. Harmful Chemicals
3. Sewage
4. Dirt or Debris from the Ground

Given these contaminants, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution when dealing with floodwater from a storm. Anyone coming into contact with it must wear full personal protective gear, and it should never touch the skin or be ingested.

How SERVPRO Handles Category 3 Water Cleanup: Addressing storm damage and Category 3 water requires the expertise of flood restoration specialists. SERVPRO's certified professionals are trained to execute a comprehensive cleanup process, which includes:

1. Contaminated Water Extraction:

   • Utilizing specialized equipment, such as pumps that remove both water and debris.

2. Damage Assessment and Material Removal:

   • Thoroughly assessing the extent of damage caused by flooding.
   • Removing all materials and items that cannot be salvaged.

3. Drying and Sanitization:

   • Drying and sanitizing every surface and item affected by the contaminated water.

4. Testing and Verification:

   • Conducting tests to confirm the cleanliness and safety of the area.

5. Restoration:

   • Restoring the building to its pre-flood condition, ensuring that new elements match the old seamlessly.

When your building falls victim to Category 3 floodwater, safeguarding the well-being of everyone involved is paramount. Keeping people away from contaminated water is crucial, and entrusting the restoration process to experts is equally important. SERVPRO, serving West Seattle and Burien, is your trusted partner in this challenging situation. We are dedicated to protecting your health and property, ensuring a thorough cleanup, and restoring your premises to their former state. Choose SERVPRO for peace of mind and comprehensive floodwater contamination mitigation.