Wet wipes block pumps and pipes

Following costly sewer blockages to critical pump stations, Westernport Water is urging people to stop flushing wet wipes.

Westernport Water is committed to raising awareness about the impact that wet wipes have on the sewerage system and ultimately the environment.

Many of the communities we serve are located close to sea level, and due to the nature of our system we rely heavily on pumps to push the sewerage to our wastewater treatment plants.

Whatever you flush down the toilet, or rinse down the sink, might be out of sight and out of mind for you, but it all ends up in the sewerage system where there are a lot of pipes and pumps that can get blocked – sometimes on your property.

On average, Westernport Water unblocks a pump per day at a cost of $12,500 per month. Ultimately, customers pay for the provision of sewer services and increased blockages drive up the cost of delivering reliable wastewater services.

Quotes attributed to Westernport Water’s Managing Director, Dona Tantirimudalige

“We’re appealing to people to help us prevent sewer blockages and potential damage to the environment by not flushing wet wipes, baby wipes, hygiene wipes, cleaning wipes, paper towel or fats and oils.”

“Everything that goes down the kitchen, laundry and bathroom sink, or is flushed down the toilet ends up in the sewerage system. Building awareness around the impacts of wet wipes and other non-degradable materials on the sewer system is important to help prevent environmental and property damage resulting from blockages and spills.”

“Our Maintenance Team works hard to keep the sewerage system moving, but we need your help! We ask that you stick to the 3P’s – Pee, Poo and Paper!  Everything else should go in the bin.”

 

ENDS

 

Media enquiries to Manager Communications and Engagement on 1300 720 711 or email | communications@westernportwater.com.au