Guernsey Water to crack down on loo-nacy

Sunday 31 May 2020

Guernsey Water has issued an online questionnaire which "seeks to understand local toilet flushing habits" as it bids to highlight the damage caused by flushing grease, wet wipes and other rubbish down the loo.

The initiative is part of a year-long public awareness campaign designed to provide guidance on what should be disposed of down drains and the correct ways to get rid of wet wipes, cooking oils and grease.

Phil Marquis, Guernsey Water’s Customer Service Manager, said putting these kinds of unflushables down the toilet can cause serious damage. 

"A questionnaire on flushing may, perhaps, be viewed by some as amusing, but we want to understand islanders current awareness of this issue in order for us to better raise awareness of the implications of flushing the wrong items down the drain," he said.

Pictured: Flushing certain products down the toilets can cause blockages and damage to the drainage system. 

"The improper disposal of grease, wet wipes, and other rubbish can lead to blockages on both private and public drains, leading to sewer backups, potential for flooding and costly damage to the Island’s wastewater system.

"Also, with so many people currently working from home during the Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, it is an opportune time to talk to as many of our customers as possible and gauge their thoughts."

The online survey, which is anonymous, is being sent to 1,000 customers and asks questions on the disposal of wet wipes, nappies and nappy liners, sanitary products and the reasons for doing so. It can be completed at water.gg/flush or is available on Guernsey Water’s Facebook page.