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Professional cleanup of homeless encampments is crucial for removing potential health hazards from areas previously occupied by the unhoused. Skill and expertise in cleaning procedures are essential, as is a compassionate and respectful approach to these delicate situations.
For years, the presence of homeless encampments has increased dramatically. Communities across the country are attempting to implement solutions to the homelessness crisis. In California, for example, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced last year that 18 communities would be awarded over $130 million to clean up homeless encampments and provide assistance to the unhoused.
Professional cleanup of homeless encampments effectively addresses public health and safety concerns while respecting the dignity of houseless persons. ATI Restoration provides comprehensive encampment cleanup services. We serve local governments, businesses, and property owners nationwide.
Homeless encampments pose a number of potential dangers to the community. Unsanitary conditions and accumulation of waste can lead to outbreaks of communicable diseases. The presence of drug paraphernalia is a threat to public safety. Criminal activity can jeopardize the safety of residents and businesses.
Concerns about these issues can make it easy to overlook the human tragedy at the center of the homelessness crisis. Not all unhoused individuals struggle with mental illness or substance abuse; some find themselves without a home due to job loss, eviction, and inability to afford basic necessities.
Given the complexity of the crisis, a professional approach is essential—especially when it comes to cleaning up and decontaminating tent cities and other encampment spaces.
Trained and certified professionals have an in-depth understanding of the hazards associated with homeless encampments. Recognizing the danger (including infectious diseases, physical injury, etc.) is critical for safe removal and disposal.
Common hazards encountered in the professional cleanup of homeless encampments include:
Proper handling is key when dealing with biohazards and other dangerous items. Furthermore, hazardous materials need to be disposed of properly to safeguard the health of individuals and the local environment.
When hiring a company to clean up a homeless encampment, discretion and sensitivity are as important as professional qualifications and capabilities. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work; the project needs to be undertaken with your specific needs and goals in mind.
To that end, the steps involved in professional cleanup of homeless encampments include:
A comprehensive assessment of the property enables the team to identify hazards and determine the scope of work.
The plan will focus on the cleaning and decontamination procedures needed, as well as the necessary equipment and supplies (including personal protective equipment).
All debris will be safely picked up, disposed of, and removed from the site. If any valuables are discovered during cleanup (such as photo IDs, vital documents, etc.), these will be secured so they can be returned to their rightful owner.
Feces, blood, used needles, and even pests like insects and rodents are all considered biohazards. The cleaning crew will follow all safety protocols for removing and disposing of hazards that present a risk of infection.
Professional technicians use chemicals that are specially formulated for surfaces contaminated by biohazardous materials. These cleaning solutions disinfect and sanitize, eliminating harmful pathogens.
The property will be surveyed to ensure that all debris and hazardous materials have been removed. Board up services may be necessary to further secure the premises.
Collaboration with local law enforcement and community stakeholders is key, as is compliance with laws and regulations concerning homeless encampments. This ensures that the houseless population is given proper notice and has time to comply with mandatory evacuation orders.
Once the premises are vacated, cleanup of the encampment can proceed safely and efficiently. Professional companies take the needs and goals of all parties into account, allowing for the creation of a healthier and safer community.
There are multiple homeless camps throughout the United States. Major cities tend to have the most encampments, but they are not limited to urban areas. Homeless encampments can also be found in smaller communities, including rural and unincorporated areas.
Common locations for homeless encampments include:
The location of the encampment can affect the strategy for cleanup and removal. For example, cleaning protocols inside a structure are different from those for an outdoor property. Professional crews will be able to implement the correct solutions for decontamination.
Many communities are ill-equipped to deal with the hazards found in homeless camps and tent cities. This is why companies specializing in environmental remediation have begun offering services to remove debris and clean and disinfect these spaces.
The benefits of engaging a company to provide professional cleanup of homeless encampments include:
Certified technicians can address the challenges of homeless encampment cleanup.
All cleanup and removal efforts are performed with maximum attention to safety and public health.
Professionals understand that compassion is key when addressing sensitive issues like homelessness.
The best restoration companies are committed to serving communities with professionalism.
Specially trained technicians use sophisticated tools and technology for complete decontamination.
The company you choose should be available to address your needs when you need help the most.
The task of cleaning up a homeless encampment should not be left to police officers, volunteers, or property owners and staff. Knowledgeable expertise is imperative for minimizing the risk of harm and protecting the community as a whole.
ATI Restoration offers unmatched professional cleanup of homeless encampments. In addition to clearing the property of debris and disposing of biohazards, we take steps to help the community. ATI partners with local outreach groups to refer displaced individuals to resources and services.
If you are in need of encampment cleanup services, do not hesitate to contact ATI Restoration for a FREE quote. We are available 24/7/365 and, with 70+ locations nationwide, respond to the needs of property owners and communities throughout the continental United States.
