The short answer
Health Risks in Sewage
Sewage carries pathogens like E. Coli, hepatitis, and salmonella. When you walk through it, those organisms can enter your body through small cuts, your eyes, or your mouth. Even if you do not feel sick right away, symptoms can appear hours or days later.
The mixture also contains chemical residues from household cleaners, oils, and industrial waste. Breathing the fumes can irritate your lungs, and skin contact can cause rashes or burns. Children and pets are especially vulnerable because they are more likely to touch their faces or put things in their mouths.
Electrical Hazards in Standing Water
Water conducts electricity, and sewage is no exception. If a power outlet, extension cord, or appliance is submerged, walking through the water could give you a severe shock. Even a small current can be deadly, especially when your body is wet.
Do not attempt to wade in to turn off power. Instead, leave the area and contact your utility provider or an electrician to handle the situation. Keep children and pets away from the water until it is confirmed safe.
Protect Your Home and Belongings
Every step you take through sewage spreads the contamination further. Your shoes track bacteria and chemicals through carpets, onto hard floors, and into other rooms. That makes the cleanup area larger and more difficult to sanitize properly.
Contaminated clothing and footwear must be removed and handled carefully. They should be placed in plastic bags and washed separately with hot water and disinfectant. The longer sewage sits, the deeper it soaks into porous materials like drywall, wood, and fabric, so acting quickly is important.
When to Call the Pros
Sewage cleanup requires special equipment and knowledge that most homeowners do not have. The pros use protective gear, industrial-grade disinfectants, and drying tools to address the affected areas thoroughly. They can also identify which materials need to be removed and which can be saved.
If you live in Rogers, keep your insurance policy documents handy and contact your provider to understand what is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. The pros can help with the physical cleanup, but they do not handle claims. Focus on staying safe and let them manage the restoration work.
- Wear rubber boots and gloves if you must be near the area
- Open windows to ventilate the space
- Avoid touching your face or mouth
- Wash any exposed skin with soap and clean water
- Dispose of contaminated items in sealed bags
- See a doctor if you develop symptoms like fever or nausea
Need help right now?
Call (479) 370-1500 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (479) 370-1500Frequently asked questions
Can I clean up sewage myself?
Small spills on hard surfaces might be manageable, but sewage backup often involves porous materials and hidden contamination. Without proper equipment, you risk spreading bacteria or missing affected areas. For larger incidents, the pros have the tools and safety training to handle the job correctly.
What should I do if I accidentally stepped in sewage?
Remove your shoes and clothing without touching them more than necessary. Place them in a plastic bag. Wash your skin with soap and clean water as soon as possible. If you have any cuts or feel unwell, see a doctor. Monitor yourself for symptoms over the next few days.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
The time depends on the size of the area, the amount of water, and how deeply materials are soaked. Simple surface cleaning may take a few hours, but structural drying and dehumidification can take days. The pros will assess the situation and explain the process based on your specific conditions.