The short answer
Health Risks of Raw Sewage
Raw sewage carries pathogens like E. Coli, hepatitis A, and salmonella. These can cause serious illness if you inhale airborne particles or touch contaminated surfaces. Even a small backup can release harmful germs into the air and onto floors, walls, and furniture.
Children, older adults, and anyone with a weakened immune system face higher risks. Symptoms may include nausea, diarrhea, skin irritation, or respiratory problems. If you feel unwell after exposure, see a doctor. Do not stay in the area to clean it yourself.
Why Leaving the Area Is Critical
The longer you stay near a sewage backup, the more you inhale or touch harmful substances. The air can become contaminated quickly, especially in enclosed spaces. Stepping outside gives your lungs and skin a break from the exposure.
Leaving also prevents you from tracking sewage through your home. Shoes and clothing can carry germs to other rooms. Move to a safe spot outside or at least to a well-ventilated area away from the affected zone. Your health is the priority.
- Sewage can release toxic gases like hydrogen sulfide
- Contaminated water may soak into porous materials
- Germs can linger on surfaces long after the water dries
- Pets and children are especially vulnerable to contact
- Your sense of smell may not warn you of all dangers
- The area can become unsafe for breathing without protection
What to Do Right After Leaving
Once you are out, remove contaminated clothing and place it in a plastic bag. Wash your hands and any exposed skin with soap and clean water. Do not re-enter the area until a professional has assessed the situation.
Turn off your HVAC system if you can do so safely from outside. This stops sewage particles from spreading through the air ducts. Also, keep windows open if you are in a safe spot to ventilate the space. Then contact local water damage pros for help.
Why Professional Cleanup Is Necessary
Cleaning sewage is not a do-it-yourself job. Household cleaners cannot kill all the pathogens or remove all the contamination. The pros use specialized equipment and methods to disinfect and dry affected areas thoroughly.
They also know how to handle hazardous waste and prevent cross-contamination. Attempting to clean it yourself can spread germs and cause health problems. The pros have the training and tools to do the job safely and effectively.
- Professionals use industrial-grade disinfectants
- They have protective gear to prevent exposure
- They know how to remove contaminated materials properly
- They can assess hidden damage in walls and floors
- They follow safety protocols for biohazard cleanup
When to Call the Pros
Call the pros as soon as you are safe and out of the area. Delaying can allow sewage to soak deeper into floors, walls, and belongings. The longer it sits, the more damage and the higher the health risk.
If you live in Mesa, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can stop the water flow quickly if needed. The pros can handle the rest, from cleanup to drying and disinfection. They can also advise on what to discard and what might be salvageable.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Can I clean up a small sewage backup myself?
It is not recommended. Even a small backup can contain dangerous germs. The pros have the right protective gear and disinfectants. Cleaning it yourself risks your health and may not fully remove contamination.
What should I do with contaminated items?
Do not try to salvage anything that absorbed sewage, like carpets, upholstery, or drywall. Place contaminated clothing in plastic bags. The pros can advise on what is safe to keep and what must be thrown away.
How long should I stay out of the area?
Stay out until the pros have completed the cleanup and disinfection. They will tell you when it is safe to re-enter. This can take a few hours or several days, depending on the extent of the damage.