From Halifax Water:

Recently, excessive amounts of Fat, Oil and Grease have been found in the sanitary sewers in your area, which have caused blockages resulting in sewage backing up into a number of houses in the subdivision.

Sewage entering a home represents a significant threat to human health and may require expensive repairs to the property.

This letter will help raise your awareness as to the damage that may result by allowing Fat, Oil and Grease to enter your drain, and how it can be prevented.

Staff will be using remote inspection cameras to view the condition of the sewers in your area to locate properties where excessive Fat, Oil, and Grease discharge is occurring.

It is important to note that the discharge of Fat, Oil, and Grease to the wastewater system may contravene Halifax Water’s Rules and Regulations for Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater Service.

Halifax Water appreciates your assistance in dealing with this issue and we encourage all residents to limit the amount of Fat, Oil and Grease, as well as other household chemicals, that previously may have been discharged to your sewer.

FAT FREE SEWERS

Help keep Fat, Oil and Grease out of your kitchen sink and out of our sewers

Where do Fat, Oil, and Grease come from?

Fat, Oil, and Grease are created from food preparation and kitchen clean up. Sources are:

– Meat fats
– Food scraps
– Lard/Shortening
– Baking goods
– Butter/Margarine
– Cooking oil
– Sauces
– Dairy products

Why should I be concerned?

When poured down your drain, Fat, Oil, and Grease can build up in your sewer lateral and obstruct the flow, causing a sewer backup into your home or property. These backups are environmental health hazards and may cause significant property damage. Fat, Oil, and Grease causes similar issues for our sewer systems and wastewater treatment plants, causing blockages and increasing operation and maintenance costs. This can result in higher costs for everyone.

What can I do?

– Never pour Fat, Oil, or Grease down your sink, toilet, or in-sink disposal unit (Garborator).
– Fat, Oil, and Grease belong in your green bin, not in our sewers.
– Before rinsing, scrape grease and food scraps off your dishes and food preparation area or wipe with paper towel and place them in your green bin.
– Allow Fat, Oil, and Grease in pots and pans to cool and solidify. Then wipe out with a paper towel and place in your green bin to be composted.
– Use a sink strainer in your sink drain to prevent food particles from going down the drain.
– Never use chemicals or cleaners to force Fat, Oil, or Grease down the drain. This will just move the problem further down the line.

We can all do our part to prevent sewer backups and keep our environment clean and safe!

Source: http://www.bedfordbeacon.com/psa-for-residents-of-ridgevale-subdivision