Our Vision - Healthy People

News Release  |  September 20, 2018

Get SepticSmart!

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - in conjunction with federal, state and local governments, and private sector partners - recognize this week as SepticSmart Week to encourage homeowners and communities to properly maintain their septic systems. More than 1.3 million homes and businesses in Michigan depend on septic systems to treat wastewater. If not maintained, failing septic systems can contaminate groundwater and harm the environment by releasing bacteria, viruses and household toxins to local waterways. Proper septic system maintenance protects public health, the environment, and saves the homeowner money through avoided costly repairs. 

“SepticSmart Week 2018 is an important step in raising awareness about septic systems and maintenance in our community. This campaign brings community members together and fosters good stewardship," said Matt Allen, environmental health supervisor with the Ottawa County Department of Public Health. 

Simple tips for homeowners: Protect It and Inspect It: Homeowners should generally have their system inspected every three years by a qualified professional or according to their state or local health department's recommendations. Tanks should be pumped when necessary, typically every three to five years. Think at the Sink: Avoid pouring fats, grease and solids down the drain. These substances can clog a system’s pipes and drainfield. Don’t Overload the Commode: Only put things in the drain or toilet that belong there. For example, coffee grounds, dental floss, disposable diapers and wipes, feminine hygiene products, cigarette butts and cat litter can all clog and potentially damage septic systems. Don’t Strain Your Drain: Be water-efficient and spread out water use. Fix plumbing leaks and install faucet aerators and water-efficient products. Spread out laundry and dishwasher loads throughout the day – too much water at once can overload a system that hasn’t been pumped recently. Shield Your Field: Remind guests not to park or drive on a system’s drainfield, where the vehicle’s weight could damage buried pipes or disrupt underground flow. Pump your Tank: Routinely pumping your tank can prevent your septic system from premature failure, which can lead to groundwater contamination. Test Your Drinking Water Well: If septic systems aren’t properly maintained, leaks can contaminate well water. Testing your drinking water well is the best way to ensure your well water is free from contaminates.

For more information, visit the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality website or contact the Ottawa County Department of Public Health at (616)393-5645.

Our team at the Ottawa County Department of Public Health exemplifies equity, integrity and excellence. Our vision is for healthy people. We work with our community to help assure conditions that promote and protect health. We are dedicated to preventing diseases and providing evidence-based public health programs and services. Public health has a vital role in all of our lives. It empowers communities with the necessary resources, knowledge and opportunities to make lasting change.

To learn more, visit www.miOttawa.org/miHealth or check out what we’ve been doing at www.miOttawa.org/AnnualHealthReports.

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