How do I handle a sewage backup?

Stop using all water immediately, do not flush toilets or run sinks or showers. Evacuate the affected area and keep children and pets away, as sewage contains harmful bacteria and pathogens. Call a plumber with sewer line equipment and a cleanup service that handles biohazard waste. Do not use chemical drain cleaners, they can cause chemical burns when mixed with sewage. Document the damage for insurance and check whether your policy covers sewage backup, which often requires a separate rider.