For Residential Septic Systems

If your home is served by a septic tank and your plumbing is slow or sluggish:

• Minimize water use as much as possible.
• Do not have the septic tank pumped. Exceptionally high-water tables might cause the surrounding area to cave into a septic tank that was pumped dry.
• If using your plumbing creates a sanitary problem, consider renting a portable waste receptacle.
• Do not have the septic tank and drainfield repaired until the flood water has receded.

Flooding and Electrical Outages Impact Sewer Systems

Use less water until power and other services have been fully restored, and there is no visible sewage on the ground.

• While pump stations and sewage treatment plants are out of power, avoid adding additional water to sewer lines.
• Report any sewage spills to your local utility providers.
• Remove absorbent household materials such as wall coverings, cloth and drywall.
• If sewage backs up into your house, wear foot coverings, such as rubber boots, and waterproof gloves during cleanup.
• Thoroughly clean hard-surfaced walls and floors, counter tops, refrigerators, and surfaces.