CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — During this public health emergency, people may use a higher volume of disinfectant and other sanitary wipes and the Charlottetown water and sewer utility would like to remind residents these wipes need to be disposed of properly.
Wipes of any form are not flushable and, when flushed, can cause problems throughout the wastewater system.
Trouble could start in customers’ pipes and the laterals out to the street, sewer mains in the streets, sewer lift pumps and the treatment plant.
Wipes should be disposed of as waste.
Island Waste Management Corporation (IWMC) has advised that “no bag is best”, but if customers have or may have been in contact with COVID-19, they are to place waste in clear plastic bags prior to disposal. This measure is put in place to protection their workers.
Additional information can be found at iwmc.pe.ca/pdfs/covidcommonques.pdf.
Charlottetown residents are also reminded that it is important to avoid putting fats, oils and grease down the drain. These should be disposed of as compost. They can be placed into a boxboard container and then in the compost bin.
Additional information can be found at iwmc.pe.ca/interactivesortingguide.php.
Following these guidelines will help to ensure the proper functioning of the sewer system along the route from household drains to the treatment plant.
Utility customers are reminded that due to coronavirus, water and sewer utility offices are closed to the public, but staff are available Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at 902-629-4014 for questions or general inquiries.
The after-hours emergency number for reporting a water leak, watermain break, fire hydrant issue, sewer backup or a missing manhole cover is 902-626-2100.
