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The “FOG” Problem in Norfolk
70% of the sanitary sewer blockages and overflows in the City of Norfolk are caused by grease build up. If washed down the drain, fats, oils and grease (FOG) cool and stick to the inside of pipes. Over time, this grease builds up, blocks the pipes and clogs your plumbing. Repairing these blockages and backups in home plumbing systems can be extremely costly to homeowners. Repairing blockages in city systems can be costly to the Department of Utilities.
When Sewers Are Clogged…
- Raw sewage overflows into streets, parks, onto property and into homes.
- Sanitary sewer service is disrupted.
- Residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial operations are affected.
- Sanitary sewer operation and maintenance costs go up.
What can you do to help?
- Never pour oil or grease down the drain and avoid using hot water to wash grease away.
- Use a paper towel to wipe up small amounts of cooking oil, and then throw the towel in the trash.
- Scrape food scraps, oils, and grease from utensils and cooking equipment prior to washing to keep grease out of cleaning water.
- Pour cooled grease into a can, let it solidify, and then put the can in the trash.
- Recycle used fryer oil at household chemical waste facilities. For a list of facilities, visit www.hrclean.org.
- Limit the use of home garbage disposals. Put baskets/strainers in sink drains to catch remaining food scraps.
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Thinking of frying a turkey at your next gathering?
Click here to view our turkey frying fact sheet, and learn how to safely dispose of frying oil. |
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Click here to view a video on the proper disposal of fats, oils, and grease. |
Important information for Food Service Establishments:
Here are a few tools to help you eliminate the FOG problem in your establishment.
 We are here to serve you!
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| EMERGENCY NUMBERS: |
| Water or Sewer Main Breaks (757) 823-1000 |
| Customer Service (757) 664-6700 |
| Miss Utility (Call Before You Dig) |
1-800-552-7001
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