Keep sewers fat-free at Christmas urges water firm

SWW said fats could clog up pipes and, if left unchecked, could cause waste to back up into homes

South West Water (SWW) is urging people to give "the region’s sewers a fat-free Christmas" by not pouring greasy substances down drains.

In 2022, bosses said the utility dealt with more than 7,000 blocked sewers - with more than 20% of them caused by greasy substances being poured down drains.

SWW said the substances could clog up pipes and, if left unchecked, could cause waste to back up into homes.

Andrew Blake, project manager at SWW, said: "It’s important to ensure that festive roasting juices, gravies, sauces, and creams are not being poured into the sewers."

He said: “The Christmas season can be challenging for our sewers due to the increased fat and food waste generated by food businesses and households accommodating more guests.

“While we want everyone to enjoy themselves, we also want to encourage kitchen staff and householders to be mindful of what they’re putting down their drains.

"By changing your practices, you can easily help prevent blockages and avoid damage to properties, sewers and the environment."