Sewage cleanup services are essential for maintaining a clean and healthy home. They are responsible for safely removing sewage from a property, preventing it from leaking into the environment and creating a health hazard. ### Health Risks of Sewage Backups Sewage backups are a serious health hazard and can cause a variety of health issues, including: * **Gastrointestinal illnesses:** Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause gastrointestinal illnesses such as E. coli, salmonella, and shigella. These illnesses can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. * **Respiratory illnesses:** Sewage also contains mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory illnesses such as asthma, allergies, and bronchitis. These illnesses can cause symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. * **Skin infections:** Sewage can contain bacteria and other organisms that can cause skin infections such as cellulitis and MRSA. These infections can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain. ### Symptoms of Sewage Backups If you suspect that you may have a sewage backup, there are several symptoms to look for: * **Foul odor:** Sewage has a distinctive foul odor that can be detected in the air. * **Water damage:** Sewage backups can cause water damage to your home, including damage to floors, walls, and ceilings. * **Health issues:** As mentioned above, sewage backups can cause a variety of health issues. If you are experiencing any of the health issues listed above, it is important to contact a sewage cleanup service as soon as possible. ### Is it Safe to Stay in a House with Sewage Backup? It is not safe to stay in a house with sewage backup. Sewage backups can create a serious health hazard, and it is important to contact a sewage cleanup service as soon as possible to remove the sewage and clean up the affected area. ### Choosing a Sewage Cleanup Service When choosing a sewage cleanup service, it is important to consider the following factors: * **Experience:** Choose a service with experience in cleaning up sewage backups. * **Equipment:** Make sure the service has the proper equipment to safely remove sewage and clean up the affected area. * **Reputation:** Check the service's reputation online and read reviews from previous customers. * **Cost:** Get quotes from several services before making a decision.