No one wants to experience water damage, especially if the water damage can also make you sick. That’s why it is important to understand the different types of water damage you have and what you need to do to fix it. Mr Restore has responded to thousands of water damage calls over the past 50 years in Dallas and surrounding areas . We know exactly what to do when it comes to black water.

There are three categories of water damage that you may be dealing with, including the worst, known as black water. 

Category 1 – Clean

This kind of water damage comes from a sanitary source and is considered clean water. It is not dangerous if consumed by humans or animals. It can, however, be contaminated by other surfaces or materials.

Category 2 – Gray

Greywater is dirty water that comes from something like a washing machine or dishwasher. This water has the potential to be hazardous to humans and animals. This is because it has some degree of contamination. Gray water usually occurs due to hidden leaks and appliance leaks.

Category 3 – Black

Blackwater, as it is commonly called, is the most dangerous kind of water contamination. It typically originates from sewage or rising floodwater. This contamination is hazardous because it may contain: 

• Toxic chemicals 
• Ground debris
• A variety of disease-causing organisms 

The Dangers of Black Water

Most water damage comes with a potential to be dangerous due to mold and mildew growth, but black water is in a league of its own. Blackwater damage contamination comes with a long list of potential diseases that are associated with its contact and ingestion. People and animals are likely to fall ill after inhaling droplets of blackwater or through skin contact into an open wound or rash.

You will be at risk for the following diseases by coming in contact with blackwater:

• Cryptosporidiosis
• Gastroenteritis
• Hepatitis

There are also many symptoms that are associated with coming in contact with blackwater. They include: 

• Abdominal pain
• Dehydration
• Diarrhea
• High fever
• Loss of appetite

You will require immediate medical attention for all of these diseases and symptoms. Do not wait for any symptoms to appear if you come in contact with black water. Visit a doctor as soon as possible.

How Experts Handle Black Water Damage

Is there blackwater in your home? If so, you should not try to clean up the mess yourself. There is too great a risk of contamination and illness. Instead, contact a local restoration company for emergency services. 

A professional, experienced restoration company will be better equipped to handle the situation. They have been trained on how to handle category three water damage. They will know that:

• Restoration technicians need to use personal protective equipment to avoid contamination, including boots, coveralls, and facemasks.
• Before any work begins, a full assessment of the damage needs to be performed. 
• All excess water and sewage material needs to removed, as well as any porous building materials and items that have been contaminated by blackwater. 
• Specialized equipment and products are necessary to clean and sanitize the area.
• The area needs to be dried using air movers and dehumidifiers after all the blackwater has been removed.
• Once all the water removed and the area has been sanitized and deodorized, the restoration process needs to begin quickly. 
• Any damaged building materials will have to be repaired or replaced while personal items are salvaged or properly disposed of.

Do not hesitate to call Mr. Restore if you ever find yourself needing to deal with blackwater. Our restoration technicians are experienced and certified to handle category three water damage in the most efficient way possible.