Suicide is an incredibly painful event, and when it occurs outdoors, the situation brings additional complexities that must be carefully handled. As a Certified Bio Recovery Master (CBRM) and owner of BioTechs Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaning, I have seen firsthand the emotional and logistical challenges families face when tasked with cleaning a public or outdoor space after such a traumatic event. My team and I are here to offer our support to San Antonio families during these difficult times while managing the unique requirements of outdoor suicide cleanup.
Understanding Environmental Factors
Cleaning a scene in an outdoor setting presents several hurdles not seen in an indoor environment. Environmental factors like weather, wildlife, and public exposure increase the urgency and complexity of the cleanup process. In San Antonio, where weather can fluctuate between heavy rains and scorching heat, biological materials can degrade quickly, making the area unsafe and unpleasant for anyone passing by.
Outdoor scenes, unlike controlled indoor environments, are exposed to more variables, such as insects and other wildlife that may interfere with the area. These external factors can accelerate the natural changes that occur in the remains, requiring quick action. My team is trained to not only clean up the scene but to do so with respect and discretion, ensuring that we protect the dignity of the deceased while preventing further damage from weather or pests.
Containment in Open Spaces
One of the first challenges we face during an outdoor suicide cleanup is establishing effective containment. While an indoor cleanup allows us to seal off the affected area easily, outdoor scenes require us to set up portable containment barriers to keep the hazardous materials isolated from the surrounding environment. This is critical, especially in public spaces or parks where residents may unknowingly come into contact with the contaminated area. In San Antonio, places like the River Walk or the scenic surroundings of Canyon Lake may become part of such tragic events, making it essential that we work quickly and effectively.
Using our OSHA-certified training, including Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) and OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogen Standards (29 CFR 1910.1030), we implement strict safety protocols to protect both our team and the public during these cleanups. We are equipped to manage the removal of blood-soaked areas and biological materials while keeping the surrounding space safe.
Malodor Treatment in Open Air
Another consideration is malodor treatment. Many people assume that malodors will dissipate more easily in an outdoor setting, but this isn’t always the case. Depending on the location and the wind direction, the malodor can linger in the air and affect nearby homes or businesses. Our team includes IICRC Certified Odor Control Technicians (OCT), who apply advanced odor treatment techniques to neutralize the air.
When we handle outdoor cleanups, we focus on using environmentally safe disinfectants and malodor treatments to not only restore the space but to do so in a way that is responsible for the environment. This is particularly important in areas like parks or natural preserves near Boerne, Texas, or Cibolo, Texas, where wildlife and plant life may be impacted by improper handling of cleaning agents.
Discretion and Compassion
One of our priorities at BioTechs is maintaining discretion while providing compassionate care to grieving families. Public spaces are often highly visible, and we understand the importance of performing our work quietly and respectfully. As part of our commitment to the community, we always aim to be as unobtrusive as possible during our cleanup process, ensuring that onlookers or passersby aren’t exposed to the distressing reality of the situation.
My team is made up of IICRC Certified Trauma & Crime Scene Technicians (TCST) who are well-versed in handling the emotional and logistical challenges of such scenes. We know that our work plays a crucial role in helping families begin to heal from their loss. When a family loses a loved one to suicide, they are often left with both emotional and financial stress. In cases like this, we encourage families to seek assistance from programs like the Crime Victims’ Compensation Program, which can help cover the costs associated with cleanup, counseling, and even funeral expenses.
Restoring the Space for Healing
San Antonio is a city with strong ties to its community. Whether a tragic event happens near the Alamo, a residential area in Shertz, Texas, or in a peaceful park in Universal City, it is vital that the space is restored for public safety and for the community to heal. My team and I believe that cleaning a traumatic scene is about more than just removing hazardous materials; it is about restoring a space to its original state and giving families a chance to begin the healing process.
Outdoor suicide cleanups are a sensitive and complex responsibility, and at BioTechs, we are prepared to meet those challenges with professionalism, care, and respect. From containment to malodor treatment, we apply our extensive training and certifications, ensuring every aspect is addressed efficiently and thoroughly. If you or someone you know is in need of our services, remember that we are here to help navigate these difficult moments.
Sources:
- IICRC
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030 Bloodborne Pathogens Standard
- Crime Victims’ Compensation Program
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