Nothing is quite as unsettling as discovering that your home has been invaded by pests. Beyond the initial shock and inconvenience, the cleanup process can be dangerous, and knowing where to start is half the battle. In this blog post, we'll walk you through cleaning after a pest infestation, providing you with the strategies and tools you need to ensure your home is once again safe, clean, and welcoming.
Disclaimer: Please note that not all pests are created equal. Whether dealing with cockroaches, rats and mice, bats, or other unwelcome guests, each type of pest requires specific techniques for complete decontamination. Given the unique challenges they present, it's often best to rely on professionals. Bio-One can handle a wide variety of pest infestations.
Before you begin, it's crucial to understand the full extent of the infestation. Pests, by nature, are adept at hiding, so you may have a larger problem than is immediately apparent. Here's how to gauge the scope:
Not all pests announce their presence with bold moves. For some, subtle hints include droppings, chewed materials, foul odors, and even the sounds of scurrying unseen in walls and ceilings.
Once you suspect an infestation, a thorough examination of your home is required. Check attics, basements, crawl spaces, behind appliances, and within stored items. Remember, pests love warm, dark, and undisturbed spaces, so be diligent in your search.
Once you've mapped out the infested areas, cleaning will be more than just about appearances. Proper cleaning is about eliminating the remnants that can attract new pests and safeguarding your health.
Good preparation is essential when dealing with pest remnants. Wear protective clothing to reduce direct contact with harmful particles.
Effective cleaning after a pest infestation requires a specific set of tools and supplies. These may include durable trash bags, a vacuum with a HEPA filter, disinfectants, and, in some cases, professional-grade cleaning agents.
Every space in your home requires a unique approach to cleaning post-infestation:
Kitchen
This is ground zero for pests due to the ready food supply. Empty cabinets, inspect for droppings and clean behind appliances. Dispose of any open food containers that might have been contaminated.
Bedrooms
Pests in the bedroom can be particularly distressing. Remove and launder all linens, vacuum the mattress with a brush attachment, and consider using encasements to protect against bed bugs.
Living Areas
Pests in living areas can leave signs on furniture and floor. Vacuum, wipe down surfaces, and consider a deep clean for carpets and furniture.
Bathrooms
Even bathrooms aren't safe from infestation. Clean behind toilets, check for droppings, and disinfect surfaces to prevent the spread of bacteria and disease.
Garages and Sheds
These are often the first places infestations occur. Remove everything, clean the space thoroughly, and discard items that can't be safely sanitized.
There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution to prevention. For example, termites may require different measures than rodents or roaches. Research specific prevention tips for the pests you’ve encountered to tailor your strategy.
There comes a point in cleaning up after a pest infestation when professional assistance might be the best next step:
Bio-One specializes in biohazard cleanup, including cleaning services post-infestation. With expertise in handling hazardous materials, we can provide thorough and safe cleaning to restore your home to its pre-infestation state. Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you regain peace of mind and the comfort of home. Contact us for a free consultation in the Indianapolis area, and Nationwide, with our franchise locations.
Bio-One specializes in blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, sewage backups, and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority.
Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service. We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.
Every year, on October 28th, the nation pays tribute to the heroes among us—those who selflessly put their lives on the line to safeguard and protect us. National First Responders Day is a testament to these exceptional individuals' courage, dedication, and sacrifice. In light of this day, Bio-One Marion County takes a moment to express profound gratitude to these brave souls who serve on the frontlines, often facing biohazards and dangers to keep our communities safe.
First responders encompass a wide array of professionals—paramedics, firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians, and other personnel who are the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency. They are the backbone of our society, the silent heroes who rush into uncertain and dangerous situations to ensure the well-being of others.
Bio-One Marion County understands the critical nature of these first responders' work. As a biohazard cleaning company, we witness the aftermath of emergencies, accidents, and tragedies, often working closely with these courageous individuals. Our team has the privilege of supporting first responders by ensuring that the environments they work in are safe, clean, and free from biohazards.
From crime scenes to accidents, natural disasters to public health crises, first responders face unimaginable challenges. They encounter hazardous materials, bodily fluids, and other dangerous substances, exposing themselves to health risks as they carry out their duties. Bio-One Marion County collaborates with these courageous professionals, aiming to alleviate some of the burdens they bear by handling the cleanup and restoration of affected areas, allowing them to focus on their primary mission of saving lives.
Our company is profoundly grateful for the unwavering dedication and resilience demonstrated by first responders, especially in the face of biohazardous situations. We've had the honor of working alongside these remarkable individuals and have witnessed their commitment to serving the community, no matter the circumstances. The sacrifices they make and the challenges they confront daily exemplify the epitome of selflessness and bravery.
On this special day and every day, Bio-One Marion County salutes the spirit and bravery of first responders. We stand in solidarity with them, recognizing the significance of their contributions to the safety and well-being of our communities. Our commitment to supporting these heroes remains unwavering, and we express our deepest gratitude for their service and sacrifice.
As we celebrate National First Responders Day, let us take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate these incredible individuals who are always at the forefront, ensuring our safety and security. Let us extend our thanks, respect, and support to the first responders who continue to be the guardians of our communities. To all the first responders out there, your bravery does not go unnoticed. You are the true embodiment of courage and selflessness; we are eternally grateful for that.
Bio-One Marion County extends its heartfelt appreciation to all first responders today and every day. Remember, support, and honor your local heroes, and let them know that their service is appreciated beyond measure. Happy National First Responders Day!
Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We specialize in all types of extreme cleaning, including blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, rodent droppings, sewage backups, hoarding, gross filth, virus/bacteria disinfection and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority.
Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service. We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.
Biohazard situations are some of the most dangerous and can be life-threatening if not handled appropriately. Therefore, if you find yourself exposed to an unexpected hazardous situation in the workplace, your home, or your property, knowing how to prepare and protect yourself and others is crucial. In this blog post, we have enlisted the expert advice of Bio-One of Marion County's experienced biohazard cleanup technicians to provide essential safety tips on how to prepare for these situations.
Biohazard situations are situations where there is a risk of exposure to infectious materials like blood, bodily fluids, and other hazardous materials. These materials can carry diseases and pose a high risk to health and safety. Examples of biohazard situations include:
It's essential to understand biohazard situations, so you can take precautions and know when to seek professional help.
Have a plan in place, detailing how you'll respond to a biohazard situation. The plan should include how you'll notify other people in the building of the danger, the procedures for containing the hazard, the measures you'll take to protect everyone's safety, and who will help you with the cleanup. Having a plan in place will help you respond quickly, which is essential in mitigating the risks posed by biohazard situations.
Personal protective equipment is essential when exposed to a potentially hazardous situation. The appropriate PPE for biohazard situations includes gloves, goggles, respirators, protective suits, and shoe covers.
It's vital to have this equipment readily available and to know how to use it properly. If you're not sure, ask a professional for guidance.
If you're faced with a hazardous event involving blood, bodily fluids, feces, urine, or human and animal waste, and you're not equipped with the right PPE, seek help immediately. Also, restrict access to the area to protect others until proper cleaning and disinfection has been done.
When it comes to biohazard situations, it's always best to contact a professional biohazard cleanup company. These companies have the experience, tools, and protective equipment to handle biohazard materials. Hiring a professional biohazard cleanup company will help ensure that the risk of exposure to hazardous materials is minimized.
Biohazard situations are some of the most dangerous situations you can face. Follow the essential safety tips outlined in this blog post to prepare yourself for a biohazard situation, and to handle it effectively without putting yourself or others at risk.
Remember to always stay safe and know that Bio-One of Marion County is ready to assist if the situation is beyond your expertise.
Sewage backups are a household nightmare that no one wants to experience. Besides causing property damage, they pose significant health risks. Sewage contains a plethora of harmful bacteria, viruses, and pathogens that can lead to serious illnesses if not properly managed. In such dire situations, it's crucial to have professionals handle the cleanup. Bio-One of Marion County is a biohazard cleaning company specializing in sewage cleanup and remediation. In this blog, we'll explore why sewage backups are emergencies, the health risks they carry, and why expert services like Bio-One of Marion County are essential for the job.
Sewage backups are emergencies for several reasons:
1. Immediate Health Hazards: When a backup occurs, harmful contaminants are released into your living space. This can lead to immediate health hazards for you and your family, including skin irritation, gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, and more.
2. Property Damage: Sewage water can cause extensive damage to your home, including structural damage and destruction of personal belongings. The longer it sits, the more costly and difficult the cleanup process becomes.
3. Foul Odors: Sewage backups often come with unbearable odors. These odors can permeate your home and are not only unpleasant but also potentially harmful to your health.
4. Spread of Disease: Sewage contains a variety of pathogens, including E. coli, hepatitis, and rotaviruses. Exposure to these pathogens can result in serious illnesses, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
1. Gastrointestinal Infections: The pathogens in sewage water can cause severe gastrointestinal infections. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dehydration. Sometimes, these infections can be life-threatening, especially for vulnerable individuals.
2. Respiratory Issues: Inhalation of sewage fumes and airborne contaminants can lead to respiratory problems, such as coughing, shortness of breath, and exacerbation of pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma.
3. Skin Infections: Direct contact with sewage-contaminated water can result in skin infections, open sores, and rashes. These can be painful and may require medical attention.
4. Hepatitis and Other Viral Infections: Sewage can contain hepatitis A and other viruses, leading to liver infections and other health complications.
Bio-One of Marion County specializes in biohazard cleaning, including sewage cleanup and remediation. Here's why their services are essential:
1. Expertise: Bio-One of Marion County's technicians are highly trained in biohazard cleanup, ensuring the sewage is safely and thoroughly removed.
2. Proper Equipment: They have access to specialized equipment and personal protective gear necessary for handling hazardous materials.
3. Health and Safety Compliance: Bio-One of Marion County adheres to industry best practices and regulations to protect both the occupants and their team from contamination.
4. Thorough Cleanup: They remove all traces of liquid waste and contaminants, preventing any lingering health risks.
5. Property Restoration: Beyond cleanup, Bio-One of Marion County can help restore your property, including repairing damaged structures and removing lingering odors.
Sewage backups are indeed emergencies due to the immediate health risks they pose. These emergencies require professional intervention. Bio-One of Marion County's expertise in biohazard cleanup makes them an invaluable resource for restoring your home and ensuring the health and safety of your family. If you ever find yourself facing the daunting challenge of a sewage backup, remember that professional help is just a phone call away.
Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We specialize in all types of extreme cleaning, including blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, rodent droppings, sewage backups, hoarding, gross filth, virus/bacteria disinfection and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority.
Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service. We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.
Tear gas, commonly used by law enforcement agencies for crowd control and riot dispersal, is an effective but potentially harmful tool. While it serves its intended purpose of maintaining public order, the aftermath of tear gas deployment can be problematic. The chemical agents and residue left behind pose health risks and environmental hazards that require specialized cleanup procedures. This blog explores why biohazard cleanup teams like Bio-One Marion County are crucial in mitigating the aftermath of tear gas exposure.
Despite its name, tear gas is not actually a gas but rather a collection of chemical compounds, most commonly CS gas and CN gas. These compounds are released in the form of aerosols or powder, causing irritation to the eyes, skin, respiratory system, and mucous membranes. While tear gas is generally considered non-lethal, exposure to it can lead to various health issues, from mild discomfort to more serious complications in individuals with underlying health conditions.
Once deployed, tear gas disperses into the environment, settling on various surfaces such as streets, buildings, and personal belongings. This residue can linger for days or even weeks, posing health risks to anyone who comes into contact with it. The primary challenges in tear gas cleanup are:
Biohazard cleanup teams, such as Bio-One Marion County, specialize in cleaning up hazardous materials, including tear gas residue. Here's why their services are essential:
Tear gas is a potent tool used for crowd control, but its aftermath can pose significant health risks, damage to property, and environmental harm. To mitigate these risks and ensure a thorough cleanup, specialized biohazard teams like Bio-One Marion County are essential. These professionals bring the expertise, equipment, and regulatory compliance necessary to safely and effectively decontaminate areas affected by tear gas, restoring them to a safe and habitable condition.
Tear gas cleanup is not a task to be taken lightly; it requires the skill and dedication of professionals who understand the unique challenges it presents. By recognizing the importance of these biohazard teams, we can better address the aftermath of tear gas exposure and work towards safer communities.
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Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. We specialize in blood, bodily fluid, feces removal, rodent droppings, sewage cleanup, hoarding, pet hoarding, gross filth cleanup, tear gas remediation, and odor removal services. Helping people facing difficult situations get their surroundings and lives back in order is our #1 priority.
Bio-One is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service. We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.
Clostridium difficile, also known as C. diff, is a type of bacteria that can cause severe diarrhea and other intestinal problems. Spores from C. diff bacteria are passed in feces and spread by touch to food, surfaces, and objects when infected people don't wash their hands thoroughly. These spores can persist in a room for weeks or months, and if you touch a surface contaminated with C. diff spores, you may unknowingly swallow the bacteria. C. diff infections can be difficult to treat, especially in older adults or individuals with weakened immune systems.
When cleaning up C. diff, it is important to understand that it is considered a biohazard. This means that it requires specialized techniques and equipment to ensure that the bacteria are completely eliminated, and the area is safe for others to use.
At Bio-One of Marion County, we have top-of-the-line chemicals, tools, and personal protective equipment capable of disinfecting the entire home quickly and effectively. Because C. diff is a bacteria transmitted by touch, many people falsely believe that a home can be disinfectd simply by wiping hard surfaces with a bleach mixture. That may work for some surfaces, but we use high-quality chemicals designed to kill these bacteria and a chemical fogging machine that creates a dense smoke of potent chemicals to kill all the hard-to-reach biohazards inside your home. This method is incredibly effective and usually allows our clients to return to their homes on the same day.
One important aspect of C. diff cleanup is the proper disposal of contaminated materials. Biohazard companies like Bio-One of Marion County are trained to follow strict protocols for the disposal of contaminated waste, which may include using special containers and following specific transportation and disposal procedures.
C. diff infection is a serious health concern that requires prompt and effective action to prevent its spread. Biohazard companies play a critical role in decontamination, using specialized equipment and techniques to disinfect contaminated areas and ensure the environment is safe for human habitation. By working with a reputable biohazard company like Bio-One of Marion County, individuals and organizations can take proactive steps to prevent the spread of C. diff infection and protect the health and safety of their communities.
Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. We specialize in blood, bodily fluid, and feces removal, rodent droppings cleaning, sewage cleanup, hoarding, and pet hoarding cleaning, gross filth cleanup, and odor removal services. Helping people who are faced with difficult situations to get their surroundings and lives back in order is our #1 priority.
Bio-One is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service. We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.
Biohazard cleaning crews are often tasked with the challenging job of cleaning up after traumatic incidents such as homicides, suicides, or accidents. While these situations are certainly difficult, they are also typically well-known and documented. However, there is another type of death that is much less talked about and can leave an even more significant impact on those left behind: undiscovered death.
Undiscovered death occurs when a person dies alone, and their body goes undiscovered for an extended period of time, often weeks or even months. These types of deaths are especially common among elderly people who live alone or individuals who do not have close family or friends to check on them regularly. In these cases, the person may have died from natural causes, suicide, or other factors, but the body decomposes without intervention.
Dealing with an undiscovered death can devastate family members and loved ones who may not have known that their relative or friend had passed away until weeks or even months later. The discovery of a decomposing body can also be traumatic for first responders and cleaning crews, who must deal with the physical and emotional aftermath of such a scene.
Cleaning up after an undiscovered death is a delicate process that requires specialized equipment, training, and experience. Biohazard cleaning crews must carefully remove and dispose of all biological materials, including bodily fluids and tissues, to ensure that the area is thoroughly decontaminated. They must also work quickly to address any odors and deodorize the space to help alleviate the psychological impact of the discovery.
In addition to physical cleaning, biohazard cleaning crews often play a crucial role in supporting family members and loved ones during the aftermath of an undiscovered death. They may work with law enforcement or other agencies to provide compassionate support and guidance during the difficult time.
Undiscovered death is a tragic and often overlooked aspect of death and dying. Biohazard cleaning crews play a critical role in addressing the aftermath of these situations and supporting the individuals and families impacted by them. Through their specialized training and expertise, these professionals help restore the affected area to a safe and sanitary condition while providing crucial emotional support and guidance during a difficult and traumatic time.
Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. We specialize in blood, bodily fluid, and feces removal, rodent droppings cleaning, sewage cleanup, hoarding, and pet hoarding cleaning, gross filth cleanup, and odor removal services. Helping people who are faced with difficult situations to get their surroundings and lives back in order is our #1 priority.
Bio-One is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service. We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.
The roots of crime- and trauma-scene cleaning companies can be traced to the 1990s, and at that time only a dozen or so companies existed. The industry was widely unregulated and awareness of contamination risks were relatively non-existant.
"I was young and dumb and saw something you only see in movies, so I quickly shut the door, took a deep breath, sat on the couch with the widow and told everyone else to get her out of here and take her to lunch, and we’ll clean this up for her," said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, Founder of Bio-One Inc. "We were just trying to help a lady in her greatest time of need, and that’s for me how I got into the crime scene and cleaning business." Read Nick's story in Franchise Times.
Today, there are hundreds of companies that advertise crime and trauma scene cleaning, and a simple Google search may prove overwhelming when you're experiencing one of the most traumatic moments in your life. To help, we've listed pre-qualifying questions to ask before choosing a crime and trauma scene company.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Crime and Trauma Scene Cleaner
There are a number of key questions to ask crime and trauma scene cleaning technicians or business owners to properly root out which one is best for your goals and circumstances.
Last but certainly most important, make sure the business you speak with shows care and compassion for your situation. They should want to do everything possible to support you and your loved ones.
If you are searching for a crime and trauma scene cleaner, Bio-One is here for you. All of our offices adhere to our business motto Help First, Business Second and are available 24/7. Click here to search for a Bio-One team near you.
Bio-One teams across the U.S. answer calls to help their communities and remediate a variety of scenes. In our new blog series, we'd like to bring you into the Bio-One world by sharing stories of the unique and important work we do for local communities.
Here is Week 7 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up.
Thank You to the Thin Gold Line
The second week of April is a time to celebrate and thank telecommunications professionals who dedicate their lives to serving the public. Often called the thin gold line, 911 dispatchers are true heroes behind the scenes.
Coast to coast, Bio-One teams found fun and unique ways to recognize the Thin Gold Line.
Bio-One Helps Homeless Man with Vehicle Clean Up
This week, News San Diego reported "Homeless man's story inspires San Diego mom to enlist community's help", featuring Rene Flohr and Nicki Chipp-Flohr, owners of Bio-One. The Bio-One duo spotted a NextDoor post asking for anyone who could help 79 year-old, Les, who had been living out of his vehicle and was recently diagnosed with skin cancer. His vehicle was floor to ceiling full of items, and Bio-One was ready to help clean and disinfect the vehicle so it could be sold or donated.
In a message to Bio-One owners, Nicki said, "I am very proud of what we are doing to help someone. I thought you’d all appreciate it, since we live the Bio-One motto of #helpfirstbusinesssecond." We couldn't agree more!
Read the entire story on News San Diego.
A "Week in the Life" at Bio-One
The Bio-One team in Tuscon, AZ had a busy week with work ranging from COVID-19 disinfections, mold remediations, bird dropping clean up, medical waste disposal, suicide remediation, and more.
If you've ever wondered what it takes to be a crime and trauma scene cleaner, we recommend read through the Tuscon team's Weekly Wrap-Up!
Bio-One teams across the U.S. answer calls to help their communities and remediate a variety of scenes. In our new blog series, we'd like to bring you into the Bio-One world by sharing stories of the unique and important work we do for local communities.
Here is Week 6 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up.
Cherokee County Biohazard Remediation
Lives in the Atlanta area were forever altered on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 after a shooting spree at three metro Atlanta spas left eight people, including six Asian women, dead within the span of 45 minutes.
Our hearts and sympathies are with everyone impacted by this tragedy.
Two weeks after the tragic events in Atlanta took place, Bio-One answered the call to remediate the spa in Cherokee County. Led by Michele O'Brien and Rebecca Phillips, the Bio-One team provided a quick response and thorough decontamination. Read more in our recent blog post.
Tragedy in Rock Hill, South Carolina
As details from the tragedy in Rock Hill, South Carolina unfold, one Bio-One team paid special tribute to the victims, first responders and other local law enforcement officials. Bio-One owners, John and Jen Symons, live in Rock Hill and experienced the police response first-hand. "It's a tight-knit community. We just can't believe it," said Jen Symons.
Their team is currently in communication with local law enforcement, and activity supporting neighbors through this difficult time.
COVID-19 Disinfection at Dojo
This week, we're spotlighting the Atlantic City team where they are regularly disinfecting Ganguly's Mixed Martial Arts. According to Bio-One owner, Victor Russomanno, "We are contracted with a local martial arts studio to disinfect them weekly. In addition to their in-house protocol, we use an electrostatic sprayer to ensure maximum coverage and protection, to ensure those who are training are staying safe through our efforts."
Across the United States, Bio-One teams actively disinfect local businesses, government buildings, and residents in the fight against coronavirus. Learn more about our COVID-19 disinfection process.
