Sewer Backup Cleanup: Important Safety Steps

Treat it as contaminated

Sewage can contain bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. Keep children, pets and vulnerable people away from the affected area.

Stop using drains

Avoid flushing toilets, running water or using appliances that drain until the blockage has been cleared, or more sewage may back up.

Protect yourself

• Avoid skin contact with sewage
• Wear waterproof gloves and boots if you must enter
• Wash hands thoroughly afterward
• Do not eat or drink in affected areas

What professional cleanup involves

Cleanup typically includes extracting contaminated water, removing porous materials such as carpet and lower drywall, cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces, and drying the structure.

Reduce future risk

Ask a plumber about installing or servicing a backwater valve, and avoid putting grease or wipes down drains. The City of Kitchener has information about sewer laterals and backwater valves.