black water

• Oct 28, 2024

Public Health Warning

Level three water, often referred to as "black water," poses significant health risks after flooding and storm surge events. This type of water is contaminated and can contain harmful pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, which can lead to various diseases. Common health risks associated with exposure to level three water include:

1.   Gastrointestinal Infections:  Caused by bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, and viruses like Norovirus.

2.   Respiratory Infections:  Mold and other allergens can proliferate in damp environments, leading to respiratory issues.

3.    Skin Infections:  Direct contact with contaminated water can result in skin rashes or infections.

 

   Steps to Address Level Three Water Contamination: 

 

1. Evacuate and Assess:  Ensure that all residents are safe before assessing the damage. Avoid contact with contaminated water.

 

2. Protect Yourself:  Wear protective gear such as gloves, masks, and waterproof boots when handling contaminated materials.

 

3. Remove Contaminated Materials: 

   - Dispose of items that cannot be cleaned and sanitized, such as carpets, drywall, and furniture.

   -  All floor coverings should be removed:  exposed terrazzo or concrete should then be thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and refurbished. These two surfaces are highly recommended as permanent flooring options, as they are sustainable and more resilient to future flooding, storm surges, or any storm damage.

 

4. Thorough Cleaning: 

   - Use a mixture of water and detergent to clean surfaces.

   - Disinfect all surfaces that came into contact with contaminated water using a solution of bleach (1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water).

 

5. Dry the Area:  Ventilate and dehumidify the space to prevent mold growth. Use fans and dehumidifiers as needed.

 

6. Inspect for Mold:  Regularly check for mold growth in the following weeks, as it can develop quickly in damp conditions.

 

7. Consult Professionals:  For extensive damage or if mold is present, consider hiring professionals specialized in water damage restoration.

 

8. Health Monitoring:  Be aware of any health symptoms that arise after exposure and consult healthcare professionals if necessary.

 

9. Invest in Air Quality:  It is highly recommended that you have our patented 10-stage air purification system permanently installed in your home. This system removes 99.999% of all airborne pathogens, leaving behind just clean, pure oxygen, significantly improving the indoor air quality and reducing health risks.

 

By taking these steps, we can help protect ourselves and the community from the health risks associated with level three water contamination after flooding and storm surges, while also making informed choices about sustainable flooring options and enhancing air quality for a healthier living environment.

 

The following was sponsored by

AL Services Of Tampa Bay LLC