Westland, MI (April 9, 2020) - With the majority of Westland residents at home due to Governor Whitmer's Stay Home, Stay Safe Executive Order, the City of Westland reminds residents that it is crucial to keep wastewater flowing safely. Misuse of wastewater systems associated with COVID-19 has caused issues in Southeast Michigan and across the country.
The following tips can help prevent backups:
- Flushable wipes, household disinfecting wipes, latex gloves, and other products all create blockages in household pipes and municipal sewer systems and should never be flushed down the toilet.
- Only toilet paper and human waste should be flushed.
- Dispose of feminine products, tissues, paper towels, "flushable" wipes, and other trash in the garbage.
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Avoid flushing medications down the toilet or drain when another safe option is available.
- Fats, oils, and greases used when cooking can make food tasty, but they gum up our wastewater systems.
- Pour fats, oils, and greases (FOG) into covered containers and cans, and dispose of them in the trash when full. Wipe down pots and pans with a paper towel to remove any remaining FOG. Scrape food and scraps into the trash when possible.
In addition to these wastewater management concerns, now is also the time for diligence with regards to stormwater protection. It is estimated that 75%
of pollution entering our rivers, lakes and streams comes from stormwater pollution.
Here's what you can do:
- Clean up after your pets
- Keep fertilizers away from storm drains and waterways
- Mow your lawn on the high setting
- Plant a tree - trees absorb the first 30% of most rainfall events
- Use of rain gardens, native plants or rain barrels reduce runoff
- Do not litter. Please dispose of trash properly, including personal protection equipment (PPE) such as gloves and masks
For additional resources and information on protecting the integrity of stormwater, wastewater and drinking water, visit
www.semcog.org/mionewater
For more information, please call (734) 467-3200
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