EMERGENCY SANITATION
SEWAGE DISPOSAL
If you do not prepare
ahead of time, a minor emergency could turn into a nightmare. Various conditions
might arise that would prevent use of the bathroom. It is vital that some way be
devised to dispose of human wastes. Failure to PROPERLY remedy the situation can
lead to the rapid spread of bacteria and disease.
It is advisable to keep on hand some sanitation supplies,
such as:
•A heavy plastic container with a tight fitting lid to use as
an emergency toilet. This could be fitted with some kind of seat. An old toilet
seat kept specifically for this purpose would be excellent.
•A larger container, also with a tight-fitting cover, to be
used to empty the contents of the smaller container into for later disposal.
•Plastic bags to be used as liners. They would facilitate
disposal of wastes and help to keep odors at a minimum.
•A supply of old newspapers and grocery sacks would be useful
for wrapping garbage or lining waste containers.
•A reserve of toilet tissue, soap, and feminine hygiene items
should be stored. Store 1 roll of toilet paper per person per week.
•A disinfectant such as chlorine bleach, Lysol, or
chlorinated lime.
Each time the temporary
toilet is used, pour or sprinkle a disinfectant such as liquid chlorine bleach,
Lysol, or chlorinated lime into it. This will help keep down bacteria and odors.
Individual privacy is important. Screen temporary toilet
facilities from view by hanging a blanket, sheet, canvas, or tarp.
If possible, bury the waste and accompanying garbage in a
hole one to two feet deep. This depth is necessary to prevent dogs from digging
it up, and to reduce the possibility of insects or rodents spreading bacteria
and disease. The hole should be at least 50 feet away from a well, spring, or
water supply and not in a flood prone area.
Be aware of the needs of an infant in the home, and store
items such as diapers, extra blankets, and plastic pants.
Portable toilets may be purchased for about $50 to $125 and
can provide 25 to 50 uses per tank depending on size. Many contain an automatic
deodorizer and disinfectant.
GARBAGE AND TRASH DISPOSAL
Garbage sours and
decomposes. It must be properly stored and handled if odor and insect problems
are to be prevented. (Unless you already have a working compost pile.)
Wrap the garbage in several thicknesses of newspaper before
putting it into your garbage containers. The paper will absorb some of the
remaining moisture and make possible longer storage without unpleasant odors. A
tight fitting lid on the garbage can is important to keep odors in and flies and
other insects out.
Garbage should be buried separately but in a like manner as
body wastes.
Trash should be kept at a minimum and placed in a large
container separate from garbage. It can be burned or be kept until picked up by
garbage services.
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