FOR YOUR INFORMATION

What is a Sanitary Sewer Overflow?

Sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) are discharges of raw sewage into surrounding water sources and communities due to faulty piping, blockages, or overloads to the sewage system. Have you ever seen your street flooded with toilet paper and waste? If you have ever seen an incident such as this, please contact us. The EPA estimates that there are at least 40,000 SSOs each year across the US, usually occur during heavy rains because of storm water infiltrating and overloading the sewage system. Sanitary sewer overflows are a public health concern, as they could contaminate the surrounding environment and threaten anyone who comes in contact with the runoff. They deteriorate the quality of water sources and can back up into homes, basements, and low-lying areas. Raw sewage can carry bacteria, viruses, protozoa, intestinal worms, and fungi, and contact with these contaminants can lead to diseases ranging from mild gastroenteritis to severe water-borne illnesses such as cholera and dysentery. Community members may come in contact with contaminated water through direct contact in roads or houses, water-related activities such as canoeing or swimming, or through drinking water.

How can I help?

You can eliminate the biggest percentage of potential SSOs by eliminating Fats Oils and Greases (FOG) from entering our collection system. Grease is a byproduct of cooking and is often washed into the sewer through the kitchen sink. Grease is problematic for sewers because it sticks to the insides of the pipes and builds up over time causing blockages and eventually overflows which can damage your home and the environment. These types of grease-related sewer spills are preventable through the simple measure “Put the Fat in a can – Keep Grease Out of the Drain!”

How can I report a problem?

You can report slow drains, back-ups and SSOs by calling 436-0241 (ask for Byron), 497-3390 (Public Works Administration), or the afterhours number 436-0350 (Spring Lake Police / Cumberland County Dispatch).