As we live through the toilet paper craze brought on by novel Coronavirus fears and many cases of self-isolation; the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) is warning people of what they flush down the drain.
So far local municipalities in Bruce and Grey have not seen the issues others have with blockages, however they're reminding residents the only paper product they can flush is toilet paper.
Carlina Coleman, Communications Specialist for OCWA says many residents may be increasing their use of disinfectant wipes, paper towels and facial tissues in response to the COVID-19 situation, and disposing them down the drain.
“We would like to remind residents not to flush wet wipes of any kind. Despite what some packaging says, wipes are not flushable. Paper towels and facial tissues also do not belong in the toilet. These items cannot be flushed because they do not break down like toilet paper does.”
She says if wipes, paper towels and facial tissues are flushed, they can cause blockages in pipes – which may lead to sewage overflows in your home or business.
Coleman says further down the line “these items can clog sewers and cause sewage overflows onto streets and the natural environment. They can also cause costly damage to local wastewater infrastructure.”
“The only things that should be flushed are the 3Ps: Pee, Poo and (toilet) Paper. No exceptions.”
She adds, their wastewater operators are currently monitoring the situation at the local facilities and are asking residents to please do their part to keep all systems running smoothly.