The dangers associated with black water are limitless. Exposure to it can threaten you and your loved ones especially if left untreated for a long time. The third category of water damage, also known as “black water”, contains countless germs that can cause health problems. Understanding the health threats of black water is necessary to avoid any untoward incidents to happen. 

Cleaning blackwater from sewage leaks or severe flooding by yourself can be troublesome. Thus, hiring a water damage Irvine professional is necessary.

What is Blackwater?

Blackwater refers to water that has been grossly contaminated by filthy agents. Examples are urine, feces, harmful bacteria, fungi, traces of blood, and other biological matter. The combination of these waste materials creates a dark-colored liquid that affects the environment. Moreover, serious damage to your property and unnecessary health threats of black water may happen if this will not be solved right away.

What are the dangers of Blackwater?

Blackwater may not be the safest type of water that can attack your home. This type of water is filled with hazards, including but certainly not limited to those listed below.

• Promotes Growth of Dangerous Fungi

Without proper treatment, you may find a few unwelcome guests remain long after water has been rid from your home. These guests are fungi like Penicillium and Aspergillus.  These things can sneak in wallboards and other out-of-the-way areas in your home. This can lead to the contamination of the air you breathe.

• Biohazard Exposure 

Blackwater usually comes from toilets containing residues of human waste, fecal matter, and bacteria. Exposure to this form of black water can lead to serious illnesses and can sometimes lead to death.

Furthermore, simply getting rid of the water in the affected areas doesn’t remove the bacteria from the surfaces of your home. You’ll need help from a professional restoration company qualified to handle biohazards. These professionals can efficiently remove the toxins and pathogens that remain.

• Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are additional hazards that come with blackwater in your home. They have the ability to grow in various places, such as inside your walls, attics, and other areas within your house.

It’s important to note that mold and mildew can have serious consequences for your health, particularly affecting your upper respiratory system. Additionally, they can also lead to financial burdens as you may need to spend money on repairing the structural damage to your home.

Understanding the 3 Health Threats of Black Water

The human waste in black water transmits a wide array of bacteria like E-coli and campylobacteriosis, both of which pose threats to your health. Understanding the 3 health threats of black water is important to avoid serious complications later on.

1. Escherichia coli (E. coli)

When infected with E. coli, you usually experience signs and symptoms around 3-4 days after being exposed to the bacteria. However, it’s possible to fall ill as early as day 1 or even up to a week later. Common signs and symptoms may include:

• mild and watery to severe and bloody stools or diarrhea
• abdominal pain or tenderness/ abdominal cramping
• nausea and vomiting in some people

Kids of younger ages and older adults have a higher risk of developing kidney diseases.

2. Parasites

Blackwater can contain different microorganisms. This includes parasites that can stay in a person’s body and cause illnesses. Common global water-related diseases caused by parasites include the following:

• Guinea worm
• schistosomiasis
• amoebiasis
• cryptosporidiosis (Crypto)
• giardiasis

3. Other microorganisms

Bacteria in black water are capable of releasing endotoxins into the air. Exposure to these microorganisms can pose risks of developing respiratory illnesses. 

Blackwater can also carry fungi spores. As a result, different forms of toxic mold can end up growing in a property that was exposed to black water. Toxic mold particles and spores can become airborne and harmful when mold growth is disturbed.

Black Water Damage Fallacy

Many homeowners think that removing black water is just simply getting your mop and bucket. Cleaning black water by yourself is more dangerous, especially if you don’t have the right tools and resources. It can be done with necessary precautions to prevent long-term health issues.

Dealing With Black Water Damage? Call A Professional

Homeowners in Irvine and surrounding areas need to be aware of the dangers black water represents. Moreover, understanding the importance of removing water and the toxins it leaves behind is very crucial. Furthermore, when it comes to Blackwater damage, water restoration should be done in the fastest way possible. 

If your Irvine home suffers from black water damage, contact professionals at Water Damage Irvine immediately. We offer quality restoration services. We have a team of skilled and trained technicians ready to restore your home to its healthy and safe condition. We are available 24/7 for all types of water damage clean-up responses.