Westland officials have issued a warning to the public about the danger to the wastewater and storm water systems in the community during the current self-isolation order of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Officials said that with the majority of Westland residents at home in compliance with the Stay Home, Stay Safe order, 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, according to the prepared statement from the city.
To prevent backups in the system the following procedures should be followed. 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 and avoid flushing medications down the toilet or drain when another safe option is available.
Additionally, residents are reminded that fats, oils, and greases used when cooking can make food tasty, but they gum up wastewater systems.
Residents should 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, officials suggested.
In addition to these wastewater management concerns, now is also the time for diligence with regards to stormwater protection, according to the prepared statement from the city. It is estimated that 75 percent of pollution entering rivers, lakes and streams comes from stormwater.
