CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Charlotte Water released a notice after pipe failure and blockages caused a wastewater overflow to leak into the McIntyre Creek.
General Statutes require owners and operators of wastewater collection to issue a press release when an untreated waste discharge of 1,000 gallons or more reaches surface water. It has been reported that approximately 1,200 gallons of wastewater overflowed near Trull Street in East Charlotte.
Charlotte Water crew responded to the overflow on Monday, March 21st.
Cam Comey, a spokesperson at Charlotte Water released a statement in regards to the incident:
“A majority of wastewater overflows can be prevented with your help. 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. Even products labeled as ‘flushable’ do not break down in the sewer system and can contribute to clogging.”
Ways to help:
- Toss in the trash: paper towels, wipes, hair, cotton swabs, feminine products, dental floss, coffee grounds, and excess food.
- Toss in the toilet: only toilet paper.
- Kitchen sink: soap suds, small amounts of foods from plates, and liquids (no fats, oils, or grease).
- Take to a full-service recycling center: used and expired oils and grease.
Charlotte Water responds to suspected sewage spill calls 24-hours-a-day and asks anyone with concerns to call 704-336-7600.