One of the problems with septic systems is that they can be affected by floods. As the flood waters flow through your yard, the excess water can be absorbed into the soil. When you have a septic system, the water is usually absorbed right into your seepage field. Unfortunately, if there are cracks in either your septic tank lids or the clean-out caps around your home, the flood waters can flow right into your septic tank. When that happens, you're looking at a total failure of your septic system until you can get it repaired. If you're just endured a flood, here are some steps you'll need to take to secure your septic tank, and protect your family.
Have Your Water Tested
If you live in a rural area, and have your own well, you'll need to have your water tested before you can resume drinking the water from your well. The failure of your septic system could have undermined your well system, which means your water could be contaminated. As soon as the flood waters recede from your yard, have your well water tested. Don't drink your water until the tests come back showing that it's safe to drink. It's a good idea to bring in bottled water for your drinking, and cooking needs. It's also safest if you use bottled water to wash your dishes with, as well.
Stop Using Your Indoor Plumbing
While your yard is flooded, you should stop using your indoor plumbing. That's because the extra water and waste flowing through the pipes could cause a serious backup, which means you'll be looking at raw sewage inside your home. To prevent further problems, either check into a hotel until your septic system can be repaired, or bring in a portable toilet until the waters recede.
Disinfect Contaminated Areas
If raw sewage has found its way into your home, you'll need to get things disinfected quickly. Raw sewage can carry diseases that are harmful to your health. First, remove all the contaminated clothing from the areas that have been exposed to raw sewage. Next, clean the flooring and tubs with a solution of bleach and water. Be sure to open the windows before you begin cleaning though. The combination of bleach fumes, and human waste can create a noxious odor.
Have Your Septic System Inspected
Before you start using your septic system again, be sure to have it inspected by a professional from companies like Rob's Septic Tanks Inc. If the waters have receded enough, you'll also need to have the tank pumped out. Depending on the amount of water that was in your yard, you may need to have it pumped several times as the water is absorbed through the soil. While they're draining the tank, make sure they inspect for damages.
Share15 August 2017
Owning a small restaurant has been very fun, rewarding and a big learning experience. I had to learn how to go about disposing of all sorts of waste while following environmental guidelines. I have created my blog to help other small restaurant owners find the information that took me weeks to find. My blog will answer many of the questions that you have about waste removal and following the strictest environmental guidelines and help inform you of what can happen if you don't follow those rules. Hopefully, you will not have to spend weeks researching and will find every answer to your questions right here on my blog.
