Sewer Blockages see Significant Increase Warns NI Water
27 March 2020 16:47
NI Water’s Angela Halpenny, Head of Environmental Regulation, explains,
“We are asking customers to please help us reduce sewer and pump blockages by not flushing wet wipes or kitchen roll. We have seen a dramatic increase in blockages over the last while, with some pumps at our treatment works becoming damaged. Fixing these pumps is an unnecessary drain on resources, meaning we are unable to treat wastewater as quickly as we would like to.
“It is absolutely right that people are taking extra precautions around hygiene at this time, however, if you use wipes, please put them in the bin, not down the loo.
“These items, along with cotton buds and sanitary products, can cause blockages in the sewer which are difficult to clear and can cause raw sewage to come back up and flood homes, businesses and the environment.
“If everyone follows the simple message of only flushing the three P’s, pee, poo and toilet paper, most out of sewer flooding will be prevented.”
Angela concludes, “NI Water’s priority during the Covid-19 outbreak is to ensure the continued provision of water and wastewater services to customers while maintaining the safety and wellbeing of staff. By following this advice, you will be helping to reduce the number of potential blockages during what is a very challenging time for everyone.”
www.niwater.com/bag-it-and-bin-it/ for further information.