If you discover raw sewage in your yard, it’s important to take action quickly and safely. Raw sewage can carry harmful bacteria and viruses, posing health risks to you and your family. It can also be quite unpleasant to deal with because of the strong odor. This blog post will guide you through the steps of how to clean up raw sewage in yards, minimizing health risks and getting your yard back to normal.
Keep in mind that sewage cleanup can be a complex task, especially for larger spills. For your safety and to ensure a thorough clean up, we recommend contacting professional sewage cleanup services.
Safety First: Preparing for Sewage Cleanup
Before you tackle that sewage spill, safety is paramount. Raw sewage can harbor harmful bacteria and viruses, so it’s important to protect yourself. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rubber Gloves: Thick, waterproof gloves like dishwashing gloves will shield your hands from contact with sewage.
- Eye Protection: Wear safety goggles or a face shield to prevent sewage from splashing into your eyes.
- Respirator: A respirator with organic vapor cartridges will help filter out harmful fumes and microorganisms.
- Sturdy Shoes: Closed-toe shoes with good traction will protect your feet and prevent slipping.
- Disposable Coveralls: A disposable suit, like a Tyvek suit, will provide an extra layer of protection for your clothes.
- Shovel and Rake: These tools will help remove solid waste.
- Garden Lime: Lime helps neutralize odors and decontaminate the soil.
- Bleach Solution: A diluted bleach solution can be used for final disinfection (more on this later).
How to Clean up Sewage Leaks & Spills
Once you’re properly geared up, it’s time to tackle the spill. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Contain the Spill (if possible): If the sewage leak is ongoing, try to stop the source if it’s safe to do so. For example, you might be able to shut off a valve or turn off a pump.
- Remove Solid Waste: Using your shovel and rake, carefully remove any solid sewage material. Place the sewage in sealed garbage bags for proper disposal.
- Apply Garden Lime: Generously sprinkle garden lime over the entire affected area. The white dust will help deodorize the area, break down solid waste, and neutralize some bacteria. Let the lime sit for 24 hours.
- Remove Lime and Debris: After 24 hours, use your shovel to remove the lime and any remaining solid waste. Dispose of the mixture in sealed garbage bags.
- Clean and Disinfect the Area: Mix a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water. Carefully pour the bleach solution over the affected area, ensuring that it soaks into the soil. Always be cautious when mixing and handling bleach.
- Rinse and Dry: Once the bleach solution has had time to disinfect, thoroughly rinse the area with clean water. Allow the area to air dry completely in the sun. Sunlight has natural disinfecting properties.
Call in the Professionals: When DIY Isn’t Enough
While the steps above can address minor sewage spills, it’s important to recognize your limitations. Call a professional sewage cleanup service in the following situations:
- Large Spills: Extensive sewage spills can be overwhelming to handle on your own. They may require specialized equipment for proper removal and disposal.
- Indoor Sewage Leaks: Sewage leaks inside your home pose a significant health risk and require professional cleaning and restoration.
- Suspected Broken Pipes: Call a plumber if you suspect a broken sewage pipe is the source of the leak. You’ll need a professional plumber to diagnose and repair the issue.
- Lingering Odors: If the sewage odor persists after your cleaning efforts, investigate further. Sewage may have seeped deeper into the soil or infiltrated your home’s structure. A professional restoration company can locate and address the source of the odor.
Don’t Let Raw Sewage Ruin Your Day — Call Demarco for Your Cleanup Needs
Discovering raw sewage in your yard can be a daunting experience. By following these steps and seeking professional help, you can clean up the mess and ensure the safety of your family and home.
At Demarco Restoration, we understand the urgency and importance of sewage cleanup. Our certified technicians have the training, experience, and equipment to handle sewage spills of any size. We can also help identify and repair the source of the leak to prevent future problems.
Don’t hesitate to contact Demarco Restoration today for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to respond to your sewage cleanup needs. With our expertise, you can have peace of mind, knowing that your yard is clean and safe once again.