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What Not to Flush
Sanitary Wipes
Even when the packaging says flushable, they do not break down in the sewer system and wind up entangled in bar screens and pumps at the wastewater plant. All must be mechanically removed. Many residential blockages are caused by a buildup of wipes.
Grease
Grease and oils do not mix with water. Pouring greases and oils down sinks can create blockages in the resident’s plumbing. Fats, Oils and Greases will bond together in sewer mains and cause backups. They also produce the bacteria that can generate horrible odors from the fats, oils, and greases that cause problems with the biological process at the treatment plant.
Vehicle Products
Engine oil, antifreeze, transmission oil, brake oil. All these products should be disposed of at the convenience center on LaVelle Rd. Not down a sewer drain!!
Disposabl
e Toilet Bowl Scrubbers
Although convenient, they also do not break down in the sewer system. The way they look when flushed is how they look when they arrive at the Wastewater Reclamation Facility (WRF). If they make it that far.
Medications
In the past, it was common practice to flush old and unused medications down the toilet. Some meds cannot be removed through the Waste Water treatment process. They eventually end up in the water table. All old and or unused medications should be disposed of @ Department of public safety for any pill form medications, and all other medications like inhalers or injectables would go to the health office.
Feminine Products
Feminine hygiene products are not supposed to be flushed down the toilet. Again, they do not break down and end up entangled in plant machinery.
Other Items Include
Dental floss, Q-tips, cotton balls, paper towels/tissues, diapers, masks, gloves, cigarette butts, Hypodermic needles, Paints of all types, thinners, and spirits.
Things that should enter into the sewer collection system
- Water
- Excrement
- Urine
- Toilet Paper
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David Weyandt
Wastewater Plant SupervisorPhone: 575-439-1606
Did you know that you can safely discard prescription & over counter drugs at the Alamogordo Police Department? A secure drop box is located in the main lobby of the police station at 700 Virginia Ave. Pills should be placed in a clear zip-lock baggie, mixed together, and without bottles. Liquids are not accepted but can be poured onto coffee grounds or kitty litter in a plastic grocery bag and thrown in the common household garbage. For syringes, contact the Otero County Public Health office at 1207 8th St. or 575-437-9347. For more info or questions, please call 575-434-4304 or email alamogordopd@ci.alamogordo.nm.us #SafeRX