Water Loss - What Category Does Your Loss Fall Under?

3/8/2020 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers from water damage it is important to understanding what type of water you are dealing with. This is critical to ensuring proper cleanup.  There are three types of water. 

Clean water (Category 1): Is water from a broken pipe, a water supply line, or even rainwater is also considered clean.

Gray water (Category 2): Is used to classify slightly contaminated water.  This is when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants begin growing, making the water hazardous. 

Black water (Category 3): Is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals, and more.  Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster.  Black water should always be handled by trained professionals. When dealing with black water, it is imperative to wear the proper PPE to insure proper safety practices.

Below are a few tips on handle each water loss category.

If the Water Damage Is from Clean Water (Category 1)

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.
• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

 If the Water Damage Is from Contaminated Water (Category 2 or Category 3)

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands  thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

The next time you have a water loss call the experts at SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda 916-991-1522.