Let’s be real—cleaning up after a traumatic event like a crime or accident isn’t just about grabbing a mop and some bleach. There’s a reason companies like AAA Crime Scene Cleanup exist, and it’s not just because we have strong stomachs (though that definitely helps). The truth is, crime scene cleanup involves serious health risks, complicated regulations, and emotional stress that most people simply aren’t prepared for. It’s a job that needs training, equipment, and experience—and it’s definitely not something you want to handle on your own.
The Hidden Dangers You Can’t See
Most people don’t realize just how dangerous a crime scene can be, even after the police and paramedics leave. Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue can carry harmful viruses like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. These are called bloodborne pathogens, and they can infect someone through just a small cut or even contact with your eyes or mouth.
One of our technicians, James, once responded to what seemed like a simple job—cleaning out a car after a minor altercation. What wasn’t obvious at first was how much blood had seeped into the seat cushions and underneath the carpeting. Without the right tools and know-how, someone trying to do this themselves would never have known they were being exposed to dangerous materials. That’s what makes biohazard cleanup different from everyday cleaning: you can’t always see the threat, but it’s there.
Not Just Dangerous—It’s the Law
In California, cleaning up crime scenes and biohazards isn’t just risky—it’s regulated. Companies must be licensed as Trauma Scene Waste Management Practitioners and follow strict guidelines for how to clean, transport, and dispose of biohazardous waste. If you don’t know what you’re doing and try to clean it yourself, you could be breaking the law and putting yourself and others at risk.
AAA Crime Scene Cleanup is fully licensed and trained in these rules. We’ve spent years helping families and property owners throughout Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pasadena, and other communities clean up the right way—safely, legally, and with respect.
The Emotional Toll Is Real
It’s also important to mention how emotionally overwhelming it can be to clean up after a crime or tragic event. We’ve worked with many families who just wanted to “take care of it themselves,” thinking it might be quicker or cheaper. But once they stepped into the room, the reality hit hard. It’s not just about the mess—it’s about what the mess represents. The shock, the sadness, the trauma—it all comes rushing back.
Our team knows how to handle these moments with compassion. One of our clients in Inglewood recently shared how grateful they were that we stepped in. They had lost a loved one and were trying to manage everything on their own. When we arrived, we not only took care of the cleanup, but we helped them feel a little less alone. That’s the part of our job we take most seriously—giving people a sense of peace during the worst times.
Specialized Equipment and Training
To clean up a biohazard scene properly, we use special personal protective equipment (PPE), medical-grade cleaners, and industrial tools to make sure every surface is sanitized. This includes everything from HEPA-filter vacuums to ozone machines that remove harmful bacteria from the air.
For example, in one case in downtown Los Angeles, we were called to clean an apartment after a traumatic incident. Blood had made its way into floorboards, furniture, and even the HVAC system. Without proper tools and training, a DIY cleaner might have wiped down the visible mess and unknowingly left dangerous particles behind. We used specialized gear to remove all traces of contamination—something you can’t do with basic household supplies.
Saving You Money (and Future Headaches)
Believe it or not, hiring professionals like us can actually save you money in the long run. If biohazard materials aren’t cleaned up correctly, they can cause long-term damage to your property. Blood can seep into wood, drywall, or fabric, leading to stains, odors, and even structural issues. Plus, if someone gets sick because of an improper cleanup, the liability could fall on the property owner.
Luckily, in California, victims of violent crimes may qualify for financial help through the California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB). They offer up to $1,709 for crime scene cleanup. At AAA, we’ve helped many families in Los Angeles and nearby areas navigate the paperwork so they don’t have to carry the burden alone.
When to Call AAA Crime Scene Cleanup
If you’re ever in a situation where cleanup is needed after a death, accident, or crime—don’t go it alone. Call AAA Crime Scene Cleanup right away. Our team is available 24/7 across Los Angeles and surrounding communities. We show up quickly, we know the laws, and we treat every scene with the dignity and respect it deserves.
At the end of the day, our job is about more than cleaning—it’s about helping people move forward. You don’t have to carry the weight of cleanup on your shoulders. Let us take care of it, so you can take care of yourself and your loved ones.
Need Help Now?
Call AAA Crime Scene Cleanup for immediate, compassionate service anywhere in the Los Angeles area. We’re here 24/7 to make sure the cleanup is handled safely, legally, and respectfully.
