Disposal of unwanted material
The drains connecting your home to the main sewer are designed in such a way that they only carry water, toilet paper, and human waste, not any other items bigger than that size. However, most people use sewers as garbage disposal units. As a result, a number of people cause blockages in sewers, which is not user-friendly to the environment.
It should be noted that some items, though called disposable, are not safe to flush down the toilet. Instead, you should dispose of them into a bag or bin, but don’t flush them. This will save unnecessary costs or expenses, as plumbing bills may hinder some of your projects.
What to do with disposables?
All disposable products should be put in a bin or bag and not flushed down the toilet, as they can find their way into the environment. The following items should be disposed of in the ways recommended:
- Condoms and tampons – wrap well and dispose of in the bin.
- Cotton buds, bandages, plasters, and dental floss – dispose of in the bin.
- Sanitary towels and pads – use the special bags for sanitary protection available from pharmacies and dispose of in rubbish bins.
- Disposable nappies – wrap them and dispose in the bin or use nappy bags available from various supermarkets.
- Razors and blades – put these into a rigid container before placing in the bin.
- Plastic bags and newspapers – place them in the bin.
Sewer Blockages
Causes of sewer blockages?
WASCO sewers are designed to take away sewage from properties. However, some people put garbage in the toilet and this causes blockages.
Who is responsible for sewage overflow?
WASCO is responsible for sewage overflow if caused by a blockage in a public sewer and has to ensure that it is cleared.
If the overflow is caused by any other problem in the customers’ private sewer or drain, the owner of the property is responsible for dealing with the flooding. In a case where a sewer serves more than one property, WASCO is responsible. Who to contact and what to do if there is a blockage within your property: Contact the sewage division immediately if there is a blockage within your property. Telephone: 22313943 or our toll-free number 800 22 011.
Take note of the following precautions to protect you and your family if there is a blockage:
- Keep away from sewage.
- Wear protective clothing and protect any cuts.
- Dispose of any vegetables or fruit growing in your garden if it is flooded, or use a hosepipe to clean it.
- Keep children away from flooded areas for a couple of days until the area dries up.
- Consult your doctor or physician if you suffer vomiting or diarrhoea following a flooding incident.
