The McHenry County Department of Health offers the
following guidelines for residents whose septic systems were impacted during
the recent flooding
.
.
Should I continue to use my septic system if it is
underwater?
No. Septic systems that are underwater
will not function properly and must not be used.
What alternatives are there if my septic system is
underwater?
The best option is to find other
housing until the flood waters recede and it has been confirmed that your
septic system is functioning properly. See the McHenry County Housing
Assistance Guide. Check with your insurance agent regarding your coverage or
contact the American Red Cross at 877-597-0747 or 312-729-6278.
If other housing is not available, or
when working at your property, it may be possible to use a portable (ie, camper
toilet) or chemical toilet temporarily. It is important that the portable
toilet be maintained to prevent nuisance conditions and must be emptied into a
community sewer system. The use of a portable or chemical toilet is a temporary
measure until flooding levels go down and you can return to living in your home
again.
What do I do if I don’t know where all of the
components of my septic system are located?
Historical permit records will show
the type and location of your septic system. Call the McHenry County Department
of Health for records after 2/1/03 or the McHenry County Department of Planning
and Development. If not records are available, an Illinois licensed private
sewage disposal system installation or pumping contractor may be able to assist
you in locating the components of your system. See list of contractors.
Are there any other safety hazards I should be aware
of with a septic system?
Yes. Septic systems typically consist
of pre-treatment tanks followed by some type of seepage system. Under flooded
conditions, lids to tanks may come loose, exposing an uncovered vault. Aeration
units and lift stations contain pumps and electrical components. When flooding
occurs, this could create an electrical hazard. Do not walk through flood
waters or use extension cords in flooded areas to provide electricity to these
types of units.
How do I protect my septic system from damage during
the clean-up process?
Don’t drive your car over the septic
system area. Try to avoid any work on or around the disposal field while the
soil is still wet. These activities will ruin the soil conductivity.
What if my septic system isn’t working after the
flood waters go down?
Contact an Illinois licensed private
sewage disposal system installation contractor to evaluate the system and
determine what repairs may be needed.
More information is available at the
McHenry County Housing Assistance Guide http://www.co.mchenry.il.us/departments/planninganddevelopment/Documents/HousingBooklet.pdf.
View also the list of licensed pumping
contractors http://dmzspdb2/departments/health/pdfDocs/ENV/septic/2013%20Licensed%20Pumping%20Contractors.pdf.
Contact MCDH if you have additional questions or
visit www.mcdh.info.
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