Watch what you flush!

Sunday 22 March 2020

Guernsey Water is urging everyone to be extra cautious about what they flush down their toilets.

As people continue to bulk-buy toilet paper and other products like kitchen roll and so-called 'flushable' wipes because of corona virus, the utility said it wanted people to remember to only flush their bodily waste and toilet paper - otherwise known as the 'three Ps'.

Jon Holt, Operations Manager at Guernsey Water said: “With the demand for kitchen towel and flushable wipes being heightened recently as a result of covid-19, we fear that greater pressure is going to be put on the Island’s wastewater (sewer) network as a result of incorrect disposal of these items.

"The correct way to dispose of items like wipes regardless of whether they state they are flushable or not, as well as other toilet paper alternatives, is to simply throw them in the bin."

Pictured: Guernsey Water said it was more important than ever to all help and keep the infrastructure running. 

He continued: “The issue is, that toilet paper substitutes and ‘flushable’ wipes aren’t really flushable and can lead to significant issues in our wastewater network. While we encourage everyone to practice good hygiene to protect against COVID-19, wet wipes and kitchen roll do not break down quickly enough and can be disruptive to our wastewater service, our customers can really help us by not flushing them down the toilet. This will reduce the risk of blockages and in turn the risk of flooding to homes, businesses and the environment during what is likely to be a difficult time for many people.”

Guernsey Water said that in light of the unfolding situation in relation to covid-19, it was more important than ever to ensure that everyone pulled together to ensure the continued smooth running of the Island’s vital infrastructure.

For more information, please visit water.gg/letsbeclear or call 239500.

Pictured top: File image.