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Ector County Health Department
221 N. Texas St.
Odessa, Texas 79762 |
Phone (432) 498-4141
FAX (432) 498-4143 |
A flooded septic system can be hazardous. Sewage may back up into the home, contaminate drinking water and prevent
proper sanitation until the system is fixed.
When flooding or saturated soil conditions persist, a septic system cannot function properly. When the soil is saturated or flooded, contaminants can enter the groundwater and your drinking
water supply.
Stop using your septic system. Use portable toilets, if possible, or use any large container with a tight –fitting lid for a temporary toilet. Line the container with a plastic bag. After
reach use, add chlorine bleach or disinfectant to stop odor and kill germs.
Remember that a well may become contaminated ruing a flood. DO NOT DRINK THE WATER! Drink bottled water, or disinfect water before drinking. After the flood water subside, test the
well water for contamination and disinfect well if necessary.
To disinfect water:
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Strain the water through a clean cloth into a clean container to remove anything you can see.
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If the water is clear, add eight (8) drops of common household bleach to each gallon of water. If the water looks
cloudy, add 16 drops of bleach to each gallon.
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Mix well by stirring or shaking the water in the container
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Let it stand for 30 minutes. If you smell a slight “bleach” odor the water is safe to drink
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If you do not smell a slight “bleach” odor, add eight (8) more drops of bleach to each gallon of water that looks
clear. If the water looks cloudy, add 16 more drops of bleach to each gallon. Stir and let stand for 15 more minutes before using the water.
OR
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Strain the water through a clean cloth into a clean container to remove anything you can see.
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Bring the water to a full boil and boil for at least 10 full minutes.
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After it cools, the water is ready to use.
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If you want to improve the taste, you can pour the water back and forth from one CLEAN container to another
several times.
Do not use the septic system until water in the drain field has subsided. If you system is still functional, minimize water usage from toilet flushing, showering and clothes washing.
If you suspect damage to your septic system, have it professionally inspected and serviced. Signs of damage include settling or inability to accept water (toilet backs up). If you suspect
your septic system ahs been damaged, consult a licensed installer to repair or replace the system.
Contact the Ector County Health Department for additional information.
Call (432) 498-4141 or come by
221 N. Texas Avenue.
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