‘Wipes could be an issue’: Here’s what you shouldn’t flush if you don’t have toilet paper
Officials with Beaufort Jasper Water Sewer Authority and Hilton Head Public Service District said Monday that residents can continue using their water and sewer systems as normal, which should include paying attention to what they’re flushing down their toilets.
As toilet paper sells out just as quickly as it’s being stocked in local stores, there’s been an uptick in sales of alternative bathroom products such as “flushable” wipes and bidets.
“Residents should not be putting anything down the sewer that they normally wouldn’t,” BJWSA general manager Joe Mantua said. “Wipes could be an issue because ones called flushable really aren’t.”
Hilton Head PSD general manager Pete Nardi echoed that sentiment. A recent newsletter from the company said, “Wipes aren’t good for your pipes. The only place to dispose of these products is the trashcan.”
No sewage system backups have been reported by BJWSA or Hilton Head PSD. Both companies continue operating as usual, but their office buildings will be closed to the public. BJWSA’s drive-thru window will remain open; PSD’s will be closed.
Tap water is safe to drink and use as usual for tasks such as washing hands and showering, Mantua and Nardi said.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s website, the World Health Organization has said the COVID-19 virus hasn’t been detected in drinking water supplies and, based on current evidence, the risk to water supplies is low.
BJWSA and PSD are following guidelines set by the EPA and CDC.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREWhat you should know about the coronavirus
The coronavirus is spreading in the United States. Officials are urging people to take precautions to avoid getting sick, and to avoid spreading the disease if they do contract it.
Click the drop-down icon on this card for more on the virus and what you should do to keep yourself and those around you healthy.
What is coronavirus?
Coronavirus is an infection of the respiratory system similar to the flu. Coronaviruses are a class of viruses that regularly cause illnesses among adults and children, but this outbreak has spawned a new disease called COVID-19, a particularly harsh respiratory condition that can lead to death.
Health officials believe COVID-19 spread from animals to humans somewhere in China. It spreads among humans by physical person-to-person contact, including via coughs. That’s why health officials urge sick individuals to avoid contact with other people.
For more information, visit the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms are similar to the flu and include fever, coughing and shortness of breath.
How can I stop the spread of the coronavirus?
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
If you develop symptoms similar to the coronavirus, you should seek medical attention. Stay home from work or school and avoid contact with others. It can take up to 14 days after coming into contact with the virus to develop symptoms.
COVID-19 is a new condition and there’s much about the disease we still don’t understand. For now, taking precautions is the best way to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
This story was originally published March 16, 2020 at 1:29 PM.
