Out of Toilet Paper? Don’t Flush “Flushable Wipes”
Since news of the coronavirus hit, people have been inundated with photos on social media showing empty store shelves. Much of the hype has been around a lack of toilet paper. CCX News posted a story earlier about empty shelves in Crystal and Maple Grove.
If toilet paper is running low in your household and you are using baby wipes or even wipes that are deemed “flushable,” the city of Maple Grove would like to remind you not to flush those down the toilet. Especially now.
“Flushable wipes are truly not flushable,” said Mark Nelson, supervisor of Maple Grove public works. “They plug up systems and the sewer backs up. Then we are put in a predicament of putting our employees in harm’s way because of the coronavirus. We are trying to avoid that.”
So far, Maple Grove hasn’t had any problems with sewer lines. And they’d like to keep it that way. The city posted a Facebook post asking residents to be mindful of what they flush. Napkins and paper towels can also cause a problem.
“We want people to be safe and for the sewer system to be working with no problems,” said Nelson. “And we don’t want to put our guys in harm’s way.”
