Dos and Don'ts
Do...
- Use non-toxic and less-toxic alternatives to household chemicals.
- Follow package directions on pesticides, fertilizers, and other household chemicals Home mechanics can drop off their used oil at no charge at oil recycling collection sites.
- Practice good housekeeping in automobile/shop maintenance areas.
- Pick up spills with absorbent material and dispose of properly.
- Have your septic tank inspected and pumped out regularly.
- Be alert to signs of a failing septic system such as the presence of wet areas above the leaching field and backing up of wastewater following periods of heavy water use.
Don't...
- Buy more hazardous chemicals than you need.
- Use pesticides, fertilizers, or herbicides near your well.
- Use commercial septic tank cleaners.
- Pour hazardous materials down floor drains, sinks or toilets, on your property, or in storm sewers such as:
- Degreasers
- Disinfectants
- Industrial Cleaners
- Paint
- Pesticides
- Solvents
- Waste Oil
- Keep vehicles, livestock, or other heavy objects around your septic leach field and distribution line.
Resources
Additional pollution prevention information is available from the following resources: