What Not to Flush

...OR RINSE DOWN THE SINK!

The accumulation of grease is a major problem in sewer systems and can not only clog your drainage system but also the main sewer lines, thereby affecting your neighbors. In the sewer business, the discharge of Fats, Oil, and Grease is collectively known as FOG. These FOG substances harden as they cool and stick to the walls of sewer pipes, causing costly clogs and overflows that can back up into homes and businesses and/or spill into our environment. 

 Here are some steps you can take to help keep FOG out of the sewer system:

 Do not pour any fats, oil, or grease down the drain.

• Pour larger amounts of used cooking oil or grease into a container with a lid, allow it to cool and solidify, and place it in the trash – Cool It…Can It…Trash It!
• For smaller amounts of FOG residue left in a pan or on a dish, wipe it off with a paper towel before washing, and throw the paper towel in the trash.
• Place a strainer in the kitchen sink to catch food scraps, then empty the strainer into the garbage.
• Garbage disposals are a major source of grease discharge. Minimize the use of your garbage disposal by following the guidelines above and restrict disposing of FOG-related foods through the garbage disposal.   

Other clog-causers to keep out of the sewer system:

• Baby wipes, adult hygiene wipes, disposable cleaning cloths/disinfectant wipes. Even if they are branded “flushable” these things can clog up the system since they do not break down as readily as toilet paper.
• Cotton products like cotton balls or swabs, or feminine hygiene products.
• Diapers.
• Dental floss.
• Paper towels. 
• Cat litter. 
• Face Masks.