In the wake of supermarket shelves being cleared of toilet paper and other sanitation items, Hunter Water is reminding its customers to only ever flush the Three P’s – pee, poo and (toilet) paper.
Hunter water is warning other products such as paper towel, tissues and wet wipes do not break down properly and can contribute to large blockages in our wastewater system.
“Not only are sewer blockages disgusting and unpleasant for our crews to remove, they are also expensive,” said Acting Executive Manager Service Delivery for Customers, Glen Robinson.
“It was only recently in late 2019 that we had to remove a 14 tonne blockage from our wastewater treatment plant at Morpeth. The operation required specialist equipment and took several days to complete. We are now preparing to remove yet another one from the same plant.
“Sewer blockages can also cause overflows into the environment and our waterways, as well as in people’s homes, leading to costly plumbing bills for the homeowner.
“Unfortunately they are an issue for water utilities, not only here in Australia, but around the world.
Hunter Water is also advising drinking water remains safe to drink and there is no evidence that drinking water will be affected by coronavirus or that it is transmitted by drinking water.
Hunter Water says their treatment plants include robust processes to ensure that treated drinking water is of a very high quality and complies with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and existing water treatment and disinfection processes, including the use of chlorine, are effective at destroying viruses in water supplies.
They are advising there is no need to buy bottled water for drinking and, safe, clean tap water will continue to be supplied directly to Hunter homes every day.
