By Jack Perry Journal Staff Writer
Coronavirus precautions have apparently stuck Rhode Islanders with another problem: clogged sewage systems.
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is urging Rhode Islanders to refrain from flushing disinfectant wipes because they can clog sewage pipes.
“During a time when we’re washing our hands and wiping down surfaces more frequently, Rhode Island’s wastewater treatment facilities are being affected by the disposal of wipes into sewage systems,” the DEM says. “We can all do our part and help avoid sewer overflows by disposing of these wipes in the trash rather than flushing them away.”
Equipment at the Burrillville Waste Water Treatment Facility and its pump stations have been getting clogged because of wipes being flushed down toilets, the DEM learned Monday.
Staff from the treatment facility have also been called out after-hours to clear clogged pipes at pump stations to avert sewage overflows, the DEM says, adding that other communities have also raised concerns.
Even wipes labeled “flushable,” including baby wipes, should not be flushed, the DEM says. Most wipes don’t break down in sewer lines and pumping stations the way toilet paper does, according to the DEM.
Flushing wipes can also lead to sewer backups in basements, the DEM says.
The DEM advises people to check out the Water Environment Federation’s website for more information on what’s flushable. jperry@providencejournal.com
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