Dealing With Toxic Cleanup

Dealing with a crisis that has created a risk for exposure to a toxic situation is one of the most serious situations a homeowner may have to face. Not only could the exposure damage their home, it could hurt or sicken members of their family. The most important thing a homeowner can do is have a preparedness plan for dealing with toxic situations. If your entire family knows how to react, it will save money and time in the long run, as well as their health and well-being immediately. Calling on the competent skills and experience of a company in toxic situations may be the best call you make following an emergency.

Going It Alone

One of the most costly and dangerous mistakes people make when dealing with clean-up issues that have a toxic aspect to them is dealing with it unprofessionally. The biggest mistake people make in response to dangerous situations is "… trying to do it themselves. (They are not aware the spill)… must be encapsulated, in situations of both mold and chemical spills. Protocols are very important to follow. Spills can mix and create worse toxicity, sometimes as serious as a bomb."

Often, people do not realize what may qualify as a toxic situation. Obviously, if chemicals are spilled, they know there is a problem. However, emergencies like flooding can produce toxic circumstances, as well. When drains back up or sewer water enters the home, it is dangerous to touch, and can spread disease and contaminate everything it touches. The water may contain bacteria and microorganisms that are extremely dangerous. The diseases in the water can be transmitted by touching the water itself, or items touched by the contaminated water. Children and pets should be kept far from flood water, and homeowners should be careful not to track any of the water into other parts of the home. During a flood, frequently wash your hands. Also remove contaminated items such as carpet and furniture from the home as soon as possible.

Here are a few things homeowners can do in the event of a toxic emergency in their home. It is important to remember you may not see the damage or contamination, so be sure to treat all items as if they have been exposed until you're positive of their condition. Do not attempt to clean or treat the items with other chemicals or cleaners. At best, this will not decontaminate the items. At worst, it could create a more toxic, or deadly, situation.

Chemical Spills

Should your toxic emergency include a chemical spill, inform all of the proper authorities as soon as possible. Contact fire and medical professionals if necessary. Remove contaminated clothing, or help those contaminated do so, and flush the skin with water for at least 15 minutes. Consider the spill flammable and warn everyone nearby of the fire hazard. If respiratory technology is available, use it, or be aware of your breathing and the breathing of those around you. Move away from the spill if necessary. If possible, protect floor drains and any other path the spill may have of reaching public waterways or the area outside your home or business.

Why an emergency company's service?

Calling on the services of an emergency company during a toxic emergency or chemical spill guarantees you will receive the professional maintenance and clean up that will protect you and your family. Their experience and knowledge will help you save money in the long run with the restoration of your property. They will also put your mind at ease during the clean up phase of your emergency. They understand the importance of safety and take the appropriate measures to follow protocol. Their company relies on the recommendations of professional environmental and industrial hygienists, people who know the safest way to deal with chemicals with high toxicity. These people understand how different chemicals affect different environments, and they will counsel you on the lasting effects of toxic spills. Your emergency may require more than just a typical clean up. The company will ensure the appropriate materials and tools are used to contain, clean, and repair your home or place of business in times of toxic emergency.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

Gary Trevano is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find Your Guide to Dealing With Home Emergencies or more Home Care articles at the Yodle Consumer Guide, The Yodler. Also check out Dealing With Toxic Cleanup