Sewage Backup Washington DC: Something’s Rotten in the Nation’s Capital

Since 2010, residents and business owners on and around the Kennedy Street NW area in the nation’s capital have been faced with a rather unpleasant problem. Sewage water coming up through the ground in the area has resulted in a smelly, and dangerous, situation. Residents have been trying hard to revitalize the neighborhood and bring more businesses back to the once bustling part of town, but this sewage issue has become a large, frustrating hurdle. Local officials are now being petitioned to take a more active role in finding a solution to the problem. In the meantime, residents have tested the water themselves and have found a very high level of dangerous bacteria. Living in close proximity to this water is bad news, and if it leaks into local properties it will be necessary to have a sewage backup company remove the sewage safely.

Why is the Situation So Dangerous?

This is a particularly dangerous situation because raw sewage present in the open in the neighborhood means that there is a high potential for exposure and therefore illness. Pets and children who play in the area are particularly at risk. Raw sewage contains pathogens, which are disease-carrying bacteria. These pathogens are present due to the human waste material that is in black water. Generally the illnesses caused by exposure to black water will lead to symptoms of infection, including diarrhea, vomiting and fever. In most cases the infection will leave the body and a full recovery will be made. Unfortunately raw sewage can also lead to life threatening diseases including tetanus. With the health of everyone in the neighborhood at risk, residents are right to be so concerned. Raw sewage out in the open is one thing, but if the water trickles into local homes and businesses the risk of illness will be exponentially greater. The water will also cause costly water damage and invite mold into properties.

Get Professional Help

While the locals continue to petition city officials for assistance, it is important to know who to call if sewage water ever shows up in your home. Sewage backup and cleanup professionals should be the only people handling black water. Don’t risk your health by trying to handle wastewater yourself. It’s simply not worth it. Plus, using conventional cleaners may not effectively sanitize the area completely. A professional will be able to pump out all of the water safely and efficiently, and your space will be sanitized. A good company will also be able to handle any water damage repairs necessary as well. Odor control is another part of the process that must be dealt with. Kennedy Street locals have complained about the pervasive sewage odor permeating the neighborhood, so you can imagine how bad the small can be in an enclosed space. Go with a company that knows how to effectively handle odor remediation.

When it comes to raw sewage, it is important to always stay safe. Call a professional when you have any sewage backup problem!