What not to flush

What we put down the drain can affect our drinking water. We can all do our part to help keep our water systems clean by controlling what we put into our sewer system. This is referred to as “source control” which is a prevention technique that helps reduce contaminants.

Do not flush or pour down drains

Bathroom items:

• Diapers, disposable/wet wipes, rags, bandages
• Tooth floss, cotton swabs, condoms, cosmetics
• Personal hygiene products (tampons, applicators, sanitary napkins)
• Pills and medicine (return to a pharmacist for disposal)

Food waste:

• Fats, grease and oils (deep fryer oil, vegetable oil, cooking oil)
• Lard, butter, salad dressing, marinade for meats
• Vegetables, meat, pasta, bread, and other food waste items

Household items:

• Cigarette butts
• Paper towels, napkins
• Children toys

Hazardous waste:

• Bleach and ammonia
• Clean solvents and spot removers
• Disinfectants
• Hot tub and swimming pool chemicals
• Oven cleaners
• Septic tank cleaners
• Latex, alkyd and/or oil-based paints
• Lacquers, stains and varnishes
• Paint thinners, strippers and solvents
• Petroleum-based products such as motor oil and gasoline

Is it flushable?

Fats, oils and grease (FOG)

Leftover household cooking oil and congealed fats or grease can be taken to the Glenmore Landfill in Kelowna. The grease collection program is a partnership with McLeod's By-Products in Armstrong, BC.

If you have large volumes of cooking oil, you can pour it into a receptacle for drop-off. If you have congealed grease, it's recommended you put it in a metal can or container and drop the whole metal container into the recycling receptacle provided. As a reminder, please do not place anything other than cooking oil and kitchen grease into the recycling containers provided, no petroleum oil such as motor oil, food items, plastic containers, or garbage.

You may also dispose of cooking oils and grease by placing the container into the trash once the container is cooled.

Leftover grease and oil should be removed from pans before washing them. Save water and soap by using a napkin to wipe them clean.

What to do with FOGs