Greeley officials want to remind residents to be careful about what they flush.
As of December 31, 2023, consumers will receive additional reminders on packages of disposable wipes sold in Colorado stores.
Governor Jared Polis signed Senate Bill 23-150, which requires manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, and retailers to properly label packages of disposable wipes with a “Do Not Flush” label.
The bill is welcome news to water utilities across the state, as the wipes can clog pipes and create issues for wastewater treatment plant operators—and residents.
Wipes are just the tip of the fatberg, however. A fatberg is a large mass of solid waste in a sewage system, consisting mainly of congealed fat, personal hygiene products, and, yes—disposable wipes—that people flush down toilets.
According to Greeley wastewater officials, a good rule of thumb is only to flush the three P's, toilet paper, pee, and poop. Keep all other materials out of toilets and drains.
Following these suggestions will help avoid clogged pipes in residents’ homes. It will also help prevent wastewater collection overflows into the streets and the Poudre River that further compromise public health.
Here are some additional items that should not be flushed:
- Cleaning wipes of any kind, even if it claims to be "flushable"
- Prescription and over the counter drugs
- Disposable diapers
- Tampons and tampon applicators
- Mini or maxi pads
- Cotton balls and swabs
- condoms
- Facial tissue
- Napkins
- Paper towels
- Bandages and bandage wrappings
- Automotive fluids
- Paint, solvents, sealants, and thinners
- Poisons and hazardous waste
- Kitty litter