Is Flood Water Dangerous? YES!

9/22/2017 (Permalink)

All items featured in the photo would need to be removed in the event of Category 3 water intrusion

If your home or business was the victim of flooding from Hurricane Irma, remediation should be considered immediately. Water is classified into 3 distinct categories. Category 1 water is considered sanitary water, coming from the sink, toilet tank, water fountain etc.

Category 2 water (previously referred to as “Grey Water”) comes from dishwashers, washing machines, and small toilet overflows that don’t contain feces. Any water that passes through multiple materials (Ex: water overflowing from the washing machine, into the carpet, and into the carpet pad) is considered category 2 water and is harmful if ingested.

Category 3 water is the most serious form of water intrusion, as it is considered grossly contaminated. Previously known as “Black water,” category 3 flooding is most often caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes. The water that enters a building from a hurricane potentially contains sewer backup, contaminates from rivers, ponds and streams, and other stagnant liquids containing bacterial growth.

Proper remediation requires removal of all contents that the category 3 water has the ability to infect. Cabinets, laminate flooring, drywall, baseboards and other porous materials should be removed within 72 hours to prevent further contamination. Failure to remove items affected by category 3 water poses threats of serious illness and will compromise the integrity of all items in the immediate area.

If your home or business flooded during Hurricane Irma, please contact SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach immediately for a free consultation and estimate. Our office staff is standing by at 904-429-4457 to assist you in your time of need.