BASIC DISASTER SANITATION AND PUBLIC HEALTH INFORMATION

• Without running water, adequate washing will be difficult; flushing toilets will be impossible.
• In any disaster situation, poor sanitation has the potential to cause devastating epidemics.
• Personal and community hygiene and proper waste disposal are essential.

RELEVANT WASTE DISPOSAL FACTS

• Urine (pee) is usually harmless, and can be safely disposed of by spreading it on the land surface, or pouring it down a functional storm drain or domestic drain.
• Fecal matter (poo) can be an avenue for transmission of many diseases; it needs to be stored and disposed of in ways that avoid human contact.

WHAT TO DO

• Collect pee separately from poo (Including toilet paper and any other contaminated solids).
• Collect pee in transportable solid containers and dispose of as indicated above.
• Collect poo in a sturdy plastic (e.g., garbage) bag lining a conventional or improvised toilet. When no more than half full, close the bag securely by twisting and knotting the top tightly.
• Store the bag(s) away from human activity and dispose of by burying several feet deep as soon as possible.

DO NOT PUT IN GARBAGE CHUTE – THIS ENDANGERS EVERYBODY!!

Keep on hand and use: household cleaning supplies including bleach, rubber gloves, soap, hand sanitizer, wipes, sponges or paper towels.  You can wash with non-potable water.

MORE INFORMATION COMING