Be Careful What You Flush – Charlotte Water Speaks Up After Sewage Overflow

A massive spill sent raw sewage rushing into the Kings Branch of the Catawba River Watershed, and has Charlotte Water speaking out against flushing things like wipes. The incident occurred last week near 10706 Old Nations Ford Road. Sand and other waste blocked pipes, causing 1,245 gallons to pour into the water.

"A majority of wastewater overflows can be prevented with your help," said Cam Coley, spokesperson at Charlotte Water, according to WCNC. "Anything put in plumbing or a manhole can cause wastewater overflows, spilling raw sewage into your street, your creek, or even inside your own home."

Despite what packaging claims, items marked "flushable" stick around in pipes. These materials bunch up, block the flow, and force waste to back up into streets and homes. The results can be disastrous.

The city's vast network includes 4,562 miles of sewer pipes. Each day, treatment facilities clean over 91 million gallons of waste before returning safe water to streams.

To prevent future disasters, stick to basic rules. Flush only toilet paper. Toss wipes, hair, cotton swabs, feminine items, dental floss, and food waste in the garbage where they belong. Paper towels must go in trash bins, too.

Kitchen rules are straightforward. While soap and small food bits can go down drains, keep fats and oils out. Take cooking grease to special recycling spots instead of pouring it down sinks.

Your monthly bills fund vital work: from daily operations to emergency fixes. Treatment centers work non-stop to meet strict quality rules before water returns to nature.

Spot a possible spill? Don't wait. Call 311 or reach Charlotte Water at 704-336-7600. Staff monitor these lines round-the-clock for emergencies.