Central Highlands Water says it has seen an increase in blocked sewer systems around Ballarat due to the overuse of wet wipes and oils being flushed down toilets and drains.
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The blockages, or ‘fatbergs’ form at rough surfaces of sewers where the fluid flow becomes turbulent.
A recent blockage in Eureka, which caused a sewage spill has highlighted the problem faced by residents and the water authority.
Central Highlands Water General Manager, Customer and Community, Jacqueline O’Neill said incidents such as the one seen over the past few days have been steadily growing in recent times.
“We take incidents like this extremely seriously. Our crews swiftly responded to contain the small spill and continue to work closely with the community, those customers affected and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),” Ms O’Neill said
Spills from the sewerage system occur for a number of reasons, including blocked and broken pipes, tree roots that have found their way into the pipes, flooding and power outages affecting pumps.
Ms O’Neill said wet wipes, fats and oils, sanitary products, nappies and personal items such as cotton buds being put down the toilet or drain at homes were leading to the increase around Ballarat.
“We would like to remind customers to please only flush the three P’s down the toilet – pee, poo and paper,” she said.
“Wet wipes refer to any kind of baby wipe, toilet wipe, body wipe, personal hygiene wipe or cleaning wipe. They are often incorrectly marketed as ‘flushable’ or ‘biodegradable’.
To report a blockage call 1800 061 514.