From Tragedy to Tidiness: Behind the Scenes of Fatal Accident Cleanup

For immediate assistance with expert cleanup after a deadly accident, contact Bio-One of Baton Rogue 24/7 at (225) 286-1800 for discreet, compassionate services. Our local team is proficient and equipped to manage all traumatic situations effectively.

Understanding Fatal Accidents: Common Causes and Prevention

A fatal accident is an unforeseen incident that results in the death of at least one individual. These tragic events can occur in various settings and involve different activities, profoundly impacting families, communities, and sometimes entire societies. 

Understanding the common causes of deadly accidents is crucial for prevention and safety measures. 

Here are some of the most frequent causes:

Traffic Collisions

One of the leading causes of fatal accidents globally involves vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Factors include speeding, impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs, distracted driving, and adverse weather conditions.

Workplace Incidents

Fatal accidents can occur in workplaces, especially in construction, manufacturing, and agriculture. Common causes include falls from heights, machinery accidents, exposure to hazardous substances, and vehicle-related incidents.

Fires and Explosions 

Accidents and explosions can lead to fatalities, often resulting from residential fires, industrial explosions, or wildfires. Causes may include electrical faults, gas leaks, improper handling of flammable materials, and arson.

Drowning

Fatal drownings occur in swimming pools, natural bodies of water, and at home (e.g., bathtubs). Lack of supervision, inability to swim, and alcohol consumption are significant factors.

Poisoning

Accidental poisoning, often due to the ingestion of toxic substances, overdose of drugs, or exposure to carbon monoxide, can be fatal, particularly in children and the elderly.

Falls

Falls, especially among the elderly, can lead to fatal injuries. They can occur at home, public spaces, or work and often result from slippery surfaces, inadequate safety measures, or health conditions affecting balance.

By identifying and understanding these common causes, individuals and communities can take proactive steps to mitigate risks and enhance safety protocols, aiming to reduce the occurrence of fatal accidents and their devastating effects.

What Happens After the Accident?

Following a fatal accident, the cleanup process is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of post-accident management. It involves a series of meticulous and sensitive operations to restore the site to its pre-accident condition. 

Here's an expanded view of the roles and challenges faced by the unseen heroes behind the scenes:

Initial Assessment and Safety Measures

• Teams begin with a thorough assessment of the accident site to understand the scope of cleanup required.
• Safety measures are implemented to protect the cleanup crew and the public, including cordoning off the area and wearing protective gear.

Biohazard Removal and Disinfection

• Specialized teams remove biohazards, such as blood and bodily fluids, ensuring they follow strict health and safety regulations.
• The area is then disinfected to eliminate any potential health risks to the public.

Debris Clearance and Property Restoration

• Cleanup crews clear away debris, including shattered glass, vehicle parts, or damaged objects, depending on the nature of the accident.
• Efforts are made to restore or replace damaged property and infrastructure to its original state.

Emotional and Psychological Consideration

• Teams are trained to perform their duties with compassion and respect for the victims and their families.
• The presence of cleanup crews can sometimes comfort families, knowing that the area is being cared for respectfully.

Coordination with Law Enforcement and Emergency Services

• Cleanup operations often require coordination with law enforcement and emergency services to meet all procedural and legal requirements.
• This collaboration ensures that evidence is preserved for investigations and that the cleanup does not impede forensic analysis.

Handling of Hazardous Materials

• Accidents involving hazardous materials (such as chemicals or fuels) require specialized cleanup teams to handle and dispose of these materials safely.
• This process includes containing any environmental contamination to prevent further harm.

Post-Cleanup Support and Resources

• Some cleanup companies offer support and resources to affected families and communities, providing information on grief counseling and other services.
• This holistic approach helps communities begin the healing process after a tragic event.

The individuals and teams involved in the cleanup after fatal accidents perform an essential service, working diligently and compassionately to restore safety and normalcy. 

Their role is critical to the broader emergency response and recovery effort. Yet, their work often remains in the shadows, unseen by the public but deeply appreciated by those directly affected by the tragedy.

Understanding Fatal Accident Cleanup

Understanding the intricacies of fatal accident cleanup is essential for recognizing its vital role in post-accident response and recovery. 

Here's an expanded view that highlights key components and considerations involved in the process:

Specialized Training and Certification

• Cleanup crews receive specialized training to handle biohazardous materials safely and effectively.
• Certification is often required to ensure that these teams have the knowledge and skills to perform cleanup tasks according to industry standards.

Use of Advanced Equipment and Techniques

• State-of-the-art equipment, including personal protective gear, biohazard containers, and industrial-grade cleaning agents, ensures thorough decontamination.
• Advanced techniques are employed to sanitize and restore the area, often involving chemical treatments and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration to remove hazardous substances.

Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations

• The cleanup process must adhere to strict health and safety regulations to protect the cleanup crew and the public.
• To manage biohazardous waste and prevent environmental contamination, guidelines set by organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are followed.

Psychological Sensitivity and Support

• Crew members are trained to approach their work with sensitivity and respect for the emotional impact a fatal accident has on victims' families and communities.
• Providing support and compassion during the cleanup process is integral to helping those affected by the tragedy cope with their loss.

Environmental Protection and Waste Disposal

• Proper disposal of biohazardous and hazardous materials is critical to prevent further harm to people and the environment.
• Cleanup teams ensure that all waste is disposed of by local, state, and federal regulations, using designated facilities for hazardous waste.

Restoration and Recovery Efforts

• Beyond cleaning and sanitizing, the goal is to restore the site to its pre-accident condition as closely as possible.
• This may involve structural repairs, repainting, and other restorative work to help the community move forward from the incident.

Coordination with Other Agencies

• Effective communication and coordination with law enforcement, medical examiners, and emergency services are crucial to efficiently managing the cleanup process.
• This collaboration ensures that the cleanup is conducted in a manner that respects ongoing investigations and the needs of the affected families.

Ongoing Education and Training

• Continuous education and training are essential for cleanup personnel to stay updated on the latest safety protocols, cleaning methods, and regulatory changes.
• This commitment to professional development helps maintain high standards of safety and effectiveness in the face of challenging and evolving cleanup scenarios.

Fatal accident cleanup is a complex and critical service requiring technical expertise, regulatory compliance, and compassionate care. 

Understanding these aspects illuminates the importance of this work and the dedication of the teams that perform it. These teams ensure public health and safety while providing dignity to those who have lost loved ones.

The Role of Professional Cleanup Teams

The role of professional cleanup teams is pivotal in managing the aftermath of incidents involving biohazardous materials, such as fatal accidents. These teams specialize in dealing with situations that require technical proficiency and a high degree of empathy and understanding.

Below are key points that expand on their role:

Expertise in Biohazardous Material Handling

• Explicitly trained to manage and dispose of biohazardous materials, including blood, bodily fluids, and tissue, to comply with health and safety standards.
• Understand the risks associated with biohazards and employ measures to mitigate these risks effectively.

Adherence to Safety Protocols

• To safeguard against exposure to harmful substances, wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection.
• Follow rigorous safety protocols to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the safety of the cleanup crew and the general public.

Comprehensive Cleaning and Sanitization

• Employ a systematic approach to cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing affected areas to restore them to a safe and visually acceptable state.
• Use EPA-registered disinfectants and specialized equipment to eliminate pathogens and reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Respectful and Compassionate Service

• Approach each situation with sensitivity towards the emotional state of the victim's families and friends, recognizing the traumatic nature of the circumstances.
• Ensure that their actions do not add to the distress of those affected by the incident.

Coordination with Authorities and Other Agencies

• Work with law enforcement, emergency responders, and health officials to ensure that their activities complement the response effort and do not hinder investigative processes.
• Communicate effectively with all stakeholders involved to facilitate a seamless operation.

Legal and Ethical Compliance

• Adhere to all local, state, and federal regulations governing the cleanup of biohazardous materials, including proper waste disposal practices.
• Maintain a high ethical standard, ensuring privacy and confidentiality for the families involved.

Emotional Support and Guidance

• While their primary role is clean up, teams often provide emotional support and guidance to grieving families by offering information on counseling and support services resources.
• Act as a source of practical advice on the next steps, helping families navigate the incident's aftermath.

Continual Training and Education

• Participate in ongoing training to stay abreast of the latest techniques in biohazard cleanup, the use of new equipment, and updates in regulatory requirements.
• Educate themselves on psychological aspects to better support affected individuals and families.

Professional cleanup teams play a critical role in the aftermath of fatality incidents. They offer their technical expertise in making areas safe and clean and compassion and understanding during a family's distress. 

Their work is essential in helping communities recover from tragic events by ensuring environments are physically and emotionally restored.

The Emotional Impact

The emotional impact of cleanup crews' work is profound, affecting not only the families of the deceased but also the broader community and the professionals themselves. While less visible, this aspect of their job is equally important to the physical cleanup. 

Here are key points that highlight the emotional significance of their role:

Providing Closure to Families

• The meticulous care taken by cleanup crews in restoring the site can help families begin the closure process by ensuring that the last physical space their loved one occupies is treated with respect and dignity.
• This act of care can be a comforting assurance that everything possible has been done to honor their loved one’s memory.

Respecting the Deceased

• Cleanup teams approach their work with a deep sense of respect for the deceased, understanding that they are caretakers of the final physical space the deceased occupied.
• This respectful handling and cleaning of the area is a final act of dignity for the person who has passed away.

Offering Compassion and Support

• Crew members often offer emotional support to grieving families, listen to their stories, and provide comfort during a difficult time.
• Their presence and professionalism can be a source of strength for families struggling with their loss.

Acknowledging the Trauma of Loss

• Cleanup professionals are acutely aware of the traumatic impact the sudden loss of a loved one can have on families and communities.
• They often serve as an unspoken pillar of support, helping to bear the weight of grief by ensuring the cleanup process is one less burden for the family.

Facilitating the Healing Process

• By efficiently and respectfully handling the cleanup process, these professionals help create a safer and cleaner environment, an essential step in the community’s healing process.
• Removing visual reminders of the tragedy allows families and communities to focus on healing and remembrance rather than the shock of the loss.

Coping with Emotional Burdens

• Cleanup crews themselves are not immune to the emotional toll of their work. They develop coping mechanisms and support systems to manage the emotional burdens they encounter.
• Many professionals in this field undergo training or participate in debriefings to help process the emotional aspects of their work.

Serving as Unseen Pillars of the Community

• Their work, often carried out discreetly and without fanfare, is a crucial service to the community, providing a foundation for emotional and physical recovery after tragic events.
• These professionals' dedication and empathy contribute significantly to communities' resilience following loss.

The emotional impact of cleanup crews' work is a testament to the profound influence of care, dignity, and respect on the healing process. They embody the role of caretakers in the truest sense, not only through their cleanup efforts but also through the compassion and support they extend to those mourning the loss of a loved one.

Environmental and Public Health Considerations

The significance of addressing environmental and public health considerations after biohazard incidents cannot be overstated. Professional teams' prompt and thorough cleanup are pivotal in mitigating risks and safeguarding communities. 

Below are key points that highlight the importance of these considerations:

Prevention of Disease Transmission

• Biohazards, such as blood and bodily fluids, can carry pathogens that pose serious health risks to humans. Professional cleanup teams are skilled in eliminating these biohazards, significantly reducing the risk of disease transmission.
• The use of EPA-approved disinfectants and adherence to stringent cleaning protocols ensures the effective neutralization of potential pathogens.

Environmental Protection

• Proper handling and disposal of biohazardous materials prevent environmental contamination. Cleanup teams follow regulations that dictate the safe disposal of these materials, protecting water sources, soil, and ecosystems from pollution.
• Cleanup operations often include measures to contain and remediate any environmental damage caused by the incident, such as chemical spills.

Maintaining Public Health Standards

• Restoring affected sites to safe and clean conditions helps maintain high public health standards. This includes not only physical cleaning but also air quality control and the removal of odors that can indicate the presence of biological hazards.
• Ensuring that public spaces and private properties are free from biohazards supports overall community health and well-being.

Avoiding Long-term Health Issues

• By addressing biohazards promptly, cleanup teams help prevent long-term health issues from exposure to contaminated environments. This includes respiratory problems, skin infections, and other conditions resulting from contact with hazardous substances.
• The thorough decontamination of the area reduces the likelihood of lingering health effects among the population.

Community Reassurance and Confidence

• The visibility of professional cleanup operations reassures the public that steps are being taken to safeguard their health and the environment. This helps maintain confidence in public health systems and emergency response capabilities.
• The commitment to transparency and efficiency in the cleanup process bolsters community trust, demonstrating that public safety is a top priority.

Compliance with Legal and Health Regulations

• Adherence to legal and health regulations is critical to the cleanup process. These regulations are designed to protect public health and ensure that all cleanup activities are conducted safely and responsibly.
• Professional teams are well-versed in these regulations, ensuring that all aspects of the cleanup meet or exceed required standards.

Supporting Public Services and Infrastructure

• Practical cleanup efforts also support the continuity of public services and infrastructure integrity. Ensuring that roads, public buildings, and other facilities are quickly and safely restored helps minimize disruption and maintain public services.
• This supports the resilience of communities, allowing them to recover more rapidly from incidents involving biohazards.

The role of professional cleanup teams in addressing environmental and public health considerations is fundamental to the well-being of communities following incidents involving biohazards. 

Through their expertise and dedication, these teams ensure that the areas affected by such incidents are promptly returned to safe, clean conditions, thereby protecting public health and the environment.

Choosing the Right Fatal Accident Cleanup Service: Key Considerations

When faced with needing a professional fatal accident cleanup service, choosing the right company is crucial. This service requires technical competence, sensitivity, and respect for the emotional context of the situation. 

Here are vital factors to consider when selecting a company for fatal accident cleanup:

Certification and Training

• Look for a company with technicians who are certified in biohazard cleanup. This certification indicates they have undergone specialized training to safely handle and dispose of biohazardous materials.
• Ensure the company is up-to-date with OSHA regulations and follows all relevant health and safety guidelines.

Experience and Reputation

• Consider the company’s experience handling fatal accident cleanups. A company with a solid track record is likely to have developed the expertise needed to deal effectively with various scenarios.
• Research the company’s reputation through reviews and testimonials. Positive feedback from previous clients can provide insight into the company’s reliability and quality of service.

Compassion and Sensitivity

• The company’s approach should be respectful and compassionate. They should understand the emotional impact of their work on the families and communities involved.
• Assess whether the company communicates effectively and genuinely cares for your needs and those affected by the accident.

Response Time and Availability

• Timeliness is critical. The company should be able to respond quickly to minimize health risks and allow the area to be safely accessed as soon as possible.
• Check if the company offers 24/7 services to ensure they can be called upon whenever an incident occurs.

Comprehensive Services

• The cleanup service should offer a comprehensive range of services, including biohazard cleanup, odor removal, sanitation, and disposal of contaminated materials.
• Verify that the company can handle all aspects of the cleanup process, from initial assessment to final disposal, to avoid needing multiple contractors.

Insurance and Compliance

• Ensure the company carries appropriate insurance to protect against liability and complies with all federal, state, and local regulations concerning biohazardous waste disposal.
• A reputable company will be transparent about its compliance and willing to provide documentation upon request.

Privacy and Discretion

• The cleanup process should be conducted with utmost discretion and respect for privacy. The company should have protocols to ensure the incident's confidentiality and those involved.
• Look for services that use unmarked vehicles and wear plain uniforms to maintain privacy.

Aftercare Support

• Some companies offer additional support services or can refer you to professionals who can help with grief counseling and other resources.
• This aftercare support can be invaluable for families and individuals coping with loss, indicating a comprehensive approach to service.

Choosing the right fatal accident cleanup service involves evaluating their expertise, responsiveness, and sensitivity to the needs of those affected. 

Considering these factors, you can select a company that will handle the situation professionally, compassionately, and respectfully.

Expert Fatal Accident Cleanup: Why Choose Bio-One?

Choosing Bio-One for fatal accident cleanup means opting for a service that combines expertise with empathy. This choice ensures a professionally cleaned area and a compassionate approach to the emotional distress such incidents can cause.

• Expertise and Training: Bio-One comprises highly trained professionals specializing in fatal accident cleanup, ensuring the highest safety and efficiency standards.
• Compassionate and Respectful Approach: Bio-One understands the situation's sensitivity and approaches each task with compassion and respect, prioritizing the emotional well-being of those affected.
• Positive Impact on the Community: Beyond just cleaning, Bio-One strives to positively impact our community by providing support and resources to help families navigate through their loss.

Bio-One stands out as the preferred choice for fatal accident cleanup. Its service respects the technical and emotional aspects of such difficult situations.

For immediate assistance with expert cleanup after a deadly accident, contact Bio-One of Baton Rogue 24/7 at (225) 286-1800 for discreet, compassionate services. Our local team is proficient and equipped to manage all traumatic situations effectively.

Tips when calling for cleanup.

Fatal Accident Cleanup FAQ

What is a fatal accident?

A fatal accident is an unforeseen incident resulting in the death of one or more individuals, often leaving a significant impact on families and communities.

What are the most common causes of fatal accidents?

Common causes include traffic collisions, workplace incidents, fires and explosions, drowning, poisoning, and falls.

What does a fatal accident cleanup involve?

It involves removing biohazardous materials, thoroughly disinfecting the site, and restoring the area to a safe condition while respecting the deceased and their families.

Why is professional cleanup important after a fatal accident?

Professional cleanup is crucial to eliminating the health risks posed by biohazardous materials, restoring the site to a safe state, and providing compassionate support to affected families.

What qualifications should a cleanup team have for fatal accidents?

Cleanup teams should be trained and certified in handling biohazardous materials, adhere to safety regulations, and demonstrate compassion and sensitivity.

How soon should a cleanup team be called after a fatal accident?

Cleanup teams should be called as soon as possible to minimize health risks and restore the area for public access.

What regulations must be followed during fatal accident cleanup?

The cleanup must adhere to strict health and safety regulations, including those set by OSHA and the EPA, and ensure the disposal of hazardous waste properly.

How do cleanup teams manage the emotional impact on families?

Cleanup teams approach their work with compassion and sensitivity, offering support and ensuring that the cleanup process does not add to the distress of the affected families.

What should families look for in a professional cleanup service?

Families should seek services with experience, certification, quick response, compassionate service, comprehensive cleanup capabilities, and adherence to regulations.

Can cleanup teams provide support after the physical cleanup is complete?

Some companies offer aftercare support or can refer families to grief counseling and other services, providing holistic support beyond the cleanup.

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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. 

• Are you local? When there's a blood spill, response time is key to prevent biohazards from spreading and to ensure quick remediation. Several businesses may pay for online advertising in your city, but their technicians could be 3 or more hours away. Furthermore, avoid calling toll free numbers. "These numbers often lead to call centers. We're local. They're not," said Ginger Akemon, owner of Bio-One in Jacksonville, FL. 
• Is your business certified and insured? Professional crime and trauma scene cleaning companies should have bloodborne pathogen certifications, they should follow OSHA personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines and remediation processes, and they should have insurance for their business. 
• What is your process for disposing biohazardous waste? Once the remediation is complete, the accumulated waste will need to be disposed in accordance to local state guidelines. Make sure the business owner or technician is aware of these guidelines and has an appropriate plan for disposal.  
• What happens to valuable or personal items that are impacted? At Bio-One, we are trained to be mindful of valuable and perceived valuable items, such as pictures, wallets, or a baseball card collection. Professional crime and trauma scene cleaners should ask if there are valuable items to keep an eye out for, and they will keep the family informed if these items are found. 
• How will you charge for your services? In most cases, home insurance will cover the cost of biohazard remediation - less your deductible. Ask if they can open a claim on your behalf, taking this burden off your shoulders. If you don't have homeowners insurance, it's OK to ask for a free estimate so you can compare costs between other local companies. 
• Will you be discrete during and after the job? Michele Amoranto, Bio-One owner in Oceanside, CA, always assures her clients that discretion is top of mind while her team is onsite. Bio-One vehicles are unmarked and technicians will designate work areas to don and doff PPE out of view from neighbors. 
• Do you have a list of resources that can help after the cleanup? You may need flooring replaced or fresh drywall installed, which will also be covered under your home insurance claim, and a recommendation could help speed up the reconstruction process. Additionally, many crime and trauma scene cleaners have connections with local counselors and victim's advocates. In west Texas, Bio-One owner, Garrett Spooner, always offers a list of free mental health resources and states that, "Being volunteers of our local Crisis Intervention Unit, we consider our job incomplete without making sure our clients' mental health, grief process, and other issues our clients may have, are addressed."

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.

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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! 

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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. 

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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 5 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

Chocolate Spill Makes for a Sweet Cleanup

In Scranton on March 25, Juan and Nicole Morales received a call for a "chocolate" cleanup. Assuming this was code for a sewage back-up, they rushed to scene to find a different situation entirely. Approximately 100 gallons of milk chocolate had spilled, covering asphalt outside a local business.

This is certainly the sweetest smelling job a Bio-One office has ever taken, but Nicole clarified, "That smell was nice for the first few minutes but at the end I felt sick. Good thing we had an awesome team that pushed through and got this done!" 

After scraping the chocolate with a forklift and pressure washing the area, the Bio-One team received a five-star review. Well done!  

Behind the Scenes with Citizen's Academy

Many Bio-One owners sign up for their local Citizen's Police Academy to acquaint themselves with the activities of their local police department. This week, Bio-One owner, Ginger Akemon, in Jacksonville, FL earned her Citizen's Police Academy certificate from the Clay County Sheriff's Office. 

"Definitely a learning process. Each County has their own, my goal is to go to each county's classes. This was 10 weeks long and over an hour drive each way, but well worth it, " said Ginger. 

Hoarding Transformation in Long Beach

In Long Beach, the Bio-One team has been working hard on several hoarding projects. These before and after pictures show the detail and expertise our teams bring to each job. 

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If selling or buying a home is in your future, you're likely well versed the entire process, from the initial offer to closing. But are you aware that disclosing a death in the home may be required? The rules vary by state. Here's what you need to know. 

Property Disclosure Documents

No matter how perfect a house looks on the outside, there is often property information a buyer needs to disclose before the sale can go through. Property disclosure documents reveal known structural issues, neighborhood nuisances, hazards, HOA details, water damage, notable repairs made to the home and death in the home. 

Rules for reporting a death in the home vary by state, and variations in rules may include:

• Timeframe: When the death occurred. 
• How the person passed away: If the death occurred naturally versus due to negligence on the property.
• Hauntings: If the seller has knowledge that the property is being haunted by the dead. 

To be more specific, here are three death disclosure examples as stated from experts or articles based in Texas, New Jersey, and California: 

• On Investopedia, Jim Olenbush, a Texas real estate broker said, “In Texas, for example, deaths from natural causes, suicides, or accidents unrelated to the property do not have to be disclosed." However, “a seller is required to disclose deaths related to the condition of the property or violent crimes." 
• Michele Messina, an agent with RE/MAX Villa Realtors in New Jersey, told Apartment Therapy, "If someone passed away after living a long, happy life, it’s not really something you have to disclose."
• The SFGate reported that in California, if someone dies on the property, it's a material defect – but only if the death occurred within three years of the date you make an offer to purchase or rent the home. 

For a state by state guide on disclosure laws we recommend visiting this resource on Nolo.com. 

How to Search Property Records

If you'd like to do your own sleuthing and search property records, look no further than DiedInHouse.com. Founded in 2013, this website promises to instantly search millions of records to determine if a death has occurred at any valid U.S. address. 

In a 2015 interview with Forbes.com, founder Roy Condrey stated, "I went online to find a ‘Carfax’ of sorts for deaths in homes and I didn’t find anything, but I did find pages and pages of people asking if there’s a way to find out if their house is haunted." 

The service isn't free, though. Once you enter an address, you're prompted to pay a minimum of $11.99 for a single search. The report will, however, provide a number of property records including meth labs, fire, death, and registered sex offender information. 

Remediating After a Death in a Home

If a death recently occurred in the home you're hoping to purchase, there may have been biohazards from bloodborne pathogens that required remediation. Consider asking the seller how the death was remediated to ensure proper steps were taken. Remediation processes may vary depending on the location of the death, how the death occurred, types of flooring, and if the death was undiscovered for days or weeks. 

Bio-One technicians are trained and equipped to properly disinfect biohazards from bloodborne pathogens, and we ensure safe biohazard material handling and disposal. Once the entire area is cleaned of blood and body fluids, we also help property owners restore the location to its pre-incident state. 

If you are selling a home and need a biohazard remediated or want to ensure remediation was done correctly, give Bio-One a call. Our experts not only contain and disinfect the dangerous biological materials, we carry out our work in a caring and private manner. Find a Bio-One team near you. 

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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 4 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

New Start for New Haven Veteran

In New Haven County, Bio-One and Junkluggers answered the call to help a veteran and his disabled wife. The couple were overwhelmed with a hoarded home and much of their furniture would need to be disposed due to biohazardous conditions. With Bio-One's Help First, Business Second motto in mind, Bio-One owner, Matthew Hill, teamed up with Junkluggers to re-furnish the home with gently used furniture at no cost to the client. 

“Anytime we can give a little more to our clients, we always seize the opportunity,” said Hill. “Junkluggers has been an awesome organization with a great mission that fits nicely into what we are trying to accomplish.”

#HelpFirst for Heart-Breaking Scene

In South Carolina, Bio-One owner, Kris Elliott, was called to disinfect and clean a heart-breaking trauma scene. After hearing the family's story, he generously decided not to request payment for his services and shared their GoFundMe page on Facebook. As of March 20, Bio-One offices in North Carolina and South Carolina have contributed just under half of the total donations. This is #helpfirst at it's finest. 

If you'd like to learn more about the family and donate, please visit their GoFundMe page. 

Poker Run Supports Law Enforcement

Supporting local law enforcement is a 24/7 activity at Bio-One! In Tuscon, AZ, the Bio-One team participated in the South Arizona Law Enforcement Foundation (SALEF) poker run. SALEF collaborates with law enforcement to understand their greatest needs, and work with businesses in the community to raise money by presenting community events and submitting for grants. 

Looks like they were gifted a beautiful day for cards, corn hole, and backing the blue. 

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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 3 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

Five 30 Yard Dumpsters

The team in Pensacola has been working non-stop on a two story home that required Bio-One hoarding services. Over the course of five days, they filled five 30 yard dumpsters, and found multiple antique pieces, photographs, sentimental items and cash that was promptly turned over to the client. 

Look through the transformation photos on their Facebook page!

Backing the Blue in Omaha

The Bio-One team in Omaha dropped off bagels at the Omaha Police Department just before roll call, and Vanessa Urbach, the civilian crime and prevention specialist, tweeted a "Thank You" with shoutouts to Bio-One. Joining the conversation was our own Bio-One Twitter handle, Deputy Chief Ken Kanger, host of the What's Up Omaha Podcast, and a number of other officers in the department.

Kudos to the Omaha team for backing the blue! 

Safety First

Before Bio-One teams can help first, we have to ensure safety for every technician on the job site. This week, Bio-One owners took part in conversations about safety. Topics ranged from preventing common injuries on the job to attending OSHA training with Bob Easter. Jared Lafferty, Bio-One owner in Gwinnett County, even took the conversation to Twitter and featured safety protocols his team uses while on the job. 

We couldn't be prouder of our teams for putting safety first! 

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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 2 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

14,000 lbs of Clothing Removed from Hoarded Home

In Indiana, the Marion County team remediated over 30+ years of hoarded clothes in a home. The team calculated that approximately 14,000 lbs of clothing were removed. 

Bio-One’s teams know that every job represents a unique experience for our customers, who may have difficulty parting with deeply personal items that can range from clothing, video tapes, trash, and even animals. 

Read our recent blog post answering common questions about animal hoarding.

We work with all of our clients in a step-by-step process that instills trust while properly ridding the space of items that can prove harmful. Learn more about Bio-One's hoarding services. 

Bio-One Welcomes Two New Offices in Wisconsin

Two Bio-One offices launched in Wisconsin this week, and we are very excited to welcome Angela, David, Andrew, and Viktoriya to the Bio-One family. Learn about these amazing teams below! 

Madison, WI

MadisonBioOne.com

Angela Welbes and David Levin are the owners of Bio-One of Madison. Both were born and raised in the midwest, and they met in 2015 while they were both living in Wisconsin. Their blended family consists of 3 daughters and a son. The COVID pandemic provided a personal reset that enabled an opportunity to join the growing Bio-One family and the ability to help the surrounding communities of Madison. They are excited to start this new venture together.

Milwaukee, WI

BioOneMilwaukee.com

Andrew and Viktoriya Gonzales are the owners of Bio-One of Milwaukee. Andrew spent the last 24 years in the banking industry, in addition to serving on boards and committees for several Non-Profits, such as NAMI, Madison Development Corp and United Way. Viktoriya originally came to Wisconsin 16 years ago to further her education and loved it so much, she decided to stay. She has spent the last 12 years in telecommunications and management. Both have a passion for giving back to their community and have a drive to help those in the Milwaukee and surrounding area who are in need.

COVID-19 Disinfections Help Seniors in Charlotte, NC

This week, the Bio-One team in Charlotte, NC announced the renewal of a COVID-19 disinfection partnership with the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services. This unique #HelpfFrst service offers free disinfections to seniors, 60 years of age or older. See their Facebook post below to learn more. 

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If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (en español: 1-888-628-9454; deaf and hard of hearing: dial 711, then 1-800-273-8255) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

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According to the American Psychiatric Association, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States and the second leading cause of death (after accidents) for people aged 10 to 34. And according the CDC, published reports from 2020 suggest that the pandemic has had a negative effect on children’s mental health. 

“Beginning in April 2020, the proportion of children’s mental health–related ED visits among all pediatric ED visits increased and remained elevated through October. Compared with 2019, the proportion of mental health–related visits for children aged 5–11 and 12–17 years increased approximately 24%. and 31%, respectively.”

Researchers have yet to link recent suicides to the pandemic since 2020 suicide data is not yet available. But on the ground, there's growing concern.

The February 2021 NPR article “Child Psychiatrists Warn That The Pandemic May Be Driving Up Kids' Suicide Risk” explores possible correlation. Takeaways include:

• NPR spoke with providers at hospitals in seven states across the country, and all of them reported a similar trend: More suicidal children are coming to their hospitals — in worse mental states.
• The number of kids with suicide attempts coming to the emergency room at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, in California, in the fall of 2020 was double the number in the fall of 2019.
• At Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis, the number of children and teens hospitalized after suicide attempts went up from 67 in 2019 to 108 in 2020. And October 2020 saw a 250% increase in these numbers over the previous October.

For ways to help kids at risk, NPR encourages readers to read Part 2 of their story, “Make Space, Listen, Offer Hope: How To Help A Child At Risk Of Suicide”.

Suicide Prevention Resources

• Whether you have struggled with suicide yourself or have lost a loved one, know you are not alone. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has collected real stories from people in whose lives have been impacted by suicide.
• The American Association of Suicidology offers a national directory for support groups for both attempt and loss survivors of suicide.
• The SAVE organization (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) has a variety of help guides including restricting access to lethal means, warning signs of suicide, and suicide prevention. 

Survivors of Suicide – What to Do Next

The loss of a loved one by suicide can be a deeply painful and traumatizing experience; however, it’s important to know that everyone experiences suicide loss in their own way. As you begin the process of healing, consider reading the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s guide for to talk to others about what happened and identify ways to take care of yourself. 

Additionally, if you have lost someone to suicide, there may be a cleanup required. There is no need for family or friends of the loved one to be further traumatized or overwhelmed with trying to figure out how to clean the impacted area. Bio-One is here for you. Learn more about Bio-One’s suicide remediation services. 

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If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (en español: 1-888-628-9454; deaf and hard of hearing: dial 711, then 1-800-273-8255) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

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