Anonymous
Source: City of Santa Barbara
Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are one of the leading causes of sewer overflows and blockages in the United States. Recently, City Wastewater staff responded to a heavy amount of FOG at a sewer pump station and removed approximately 300 pounds of semi-solid grease before it caused equipment or system blockage issues.
Pouring FOG down the drain can create obstructions in your private sewer lateral, public sewer mains, and creates serious problems like blockages and sewer overflows. As the FOG material cools down, it begins to stick to the sewer pipes and other materials in the sewer system. Over time, a FOG buildup can cause maintenance issues on sewer pump stations, or clog an entire pipeline and result in sewer overflows in your property or the community. Any of the before mentioned incidents could cost you or/and the City thousands of dollars in staff response and repairs.
Please, prevent FOG related issues by following these simple tips:
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Do not pour cooking oil, greasy food, dairy products, or salad dressing down the drain.
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Use strainers in the sink drain to catch food scraps and other solids.
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Do not use hot water and soap to try to wash FOGs down the drain. It will eventually cool and harden in the sewer lines.
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Pour FOG into a disposable container, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and place in your freezer. Once content is frozen, toss it in the garbage.
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Mix FOG with absorbent materials such as coffee grounds or cat litter and throw in the trash.
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Wipe or scrape FOG from pots, pans, and dishes into the trash can before placing them in the sink for washing.
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Use a paper towel to wipe excess FOG from pots, pans, and dishes and toss it in the garbage.
For more information on the City’s FOG program please visit SantaBarbaraCA.gov/FOG or call (805) 568-1005. Thank you for helping us keep our community sewers flowing.
