Historical October 1990 earthquake supplement. Original predictions, insurance prices and safety guidance are reproduced as period reporting, not current forecasts or instructions.
Let’s face it, in a disaster plumbing may not be useable due to broken sewer lines, broken water lines. a broken toilet, flooding or freezing.
In such a case it is especially important to dispose of human waste in a sanitary manner to avoid sepsis and spread of disease.
If the water lines to. or sewer lines from. your toilet are broken. flooded or frozen but the toilet itself is useable, the toilet bowl may be lined with a plastic bag to collect waste and the toilet used.
But do not flush!
Following the use, a small amount of disinfectant (see below) should be added to the bag and the bag sealed and placed in a tightly covered container. preferably away from people and pets.
If the toilet is unusable. a plastic bag in a bucket may be substituted. Disinfectant Four types of disinfectant are easy and efficient for home use. • 1 part liquid chlorine bleach to 10 parts water. • HTH (calcium hypochlorite) is available in swimming pool supply stores. • Portable toilet chemicals, liquid or dry, are available at recreational vehicle supply stores. • Powdered, chlorinated lime (not quick lime) is available at some building supply stores. Caution! Chlorinated products for use mixed with water can be hazardous if used dry.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, October 1990.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1990_10.pdf, printed page(s) 4; PDF page(s) 4.
