Cleaning Up After a Sewage Backup What Kills Sewage Bacteria

When a sewage backup occurs, time is of the essence. Not only is sewage cleanup a messy and unpleasant task, but it can also be hazardous to your health. Sewage contains harmful bacteria that can cause a variety of illnesses, including E. coli, salmonella, and shigella. If left untreated, even a small amount of sewage can contaminate your home and make you and your family sick. **Cleanup and Disinfection** The first step in sewage cleanup is to remove all visible sewage from the affected area. This can be done using a wet/dry vacuum cleaner or a mop and bucket. Once the sewage has been removed, the area should be disinfected with a bleach solution. Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that kills bacteria and viruses on contact. To make a bleach solution, mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water. Apply the bleach solution to the affected area and let it sit for at least 10 minutes before rinsing with water. **What Kills Sewage Bacteria?** In addition to bleach, there are a number of other products that can be used to kill sewage bacteria. These include:

• Hydrogen peroxide
• Lysol
• Pine-Sol
• Quat disinfectants

When choosing a product to kill sewage bacteria, it is important to read the label carefully and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Some products may need to be diluted before use, while others may not be safe for use on certain surfaces. **Prevention** The best way to avoid the need for sewage cleanup is to prevent sewage backups from occurring in the first place. There are a number of things you can do to prevent sewage backups, including:

• Keep your drains clear of food, grease, and hair.
• Flush only toilet paper down the toilet.
• Install a backflow valve in your sewer line.
• Have your septic tank pumped regularly.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent sewage backups and keep your home and family safe.