Colombia. With the aim of preventing floods and possible overflows in the sewerage networks of Bogotá – due to the recent rains that have been recorded in the city – the Aqueduct Company (EAB) has carried out work that has allowed to remove more than 500 tons of garbage and debris.
At the same time, the Aqueduct Company called for preventive work to avoid incidents in the buildings.
Some recommendations are:
In basements: Buildings, recommends the Aqueduct, should have a pumping system in perfect condition to drain water from basements and parking lots into the sewer system.
In canals and downspouts of the houses (pipes of the facades that allow the normal drainage of the roofs): These must remain free of garbage and solid objects.
In the inspection boxes (sanitary and rainwater collection boxes): Users have the responsibility to verify their correct functioning and prevent them from filling with garbage, in order to facilitate drainage. It is recommended to clean them periodically to avoid water refluxes in homes.
On roofs and roofs: Check the condition of the tiles and canopies, as a roof in poor condition may fall due to rain or hail, or may fall off due to strong winds.
In courtyards: Keep patios clean and free of objects that clog siphons. Prevent leaves and branches that come off with rain and wind from reaching the siphons. If there are trees in your house, cut the branches that are on the roof of the house. Siphons should always remain with lids.
In bathrooms: condoms, sanitary pads and toilet paper thrown into the toilets plug the internal pipes; deposit them in the garbage cans. Also, prevent hair from accumulating in shower siphons or shaving residue in sinks.
In the kitchen: Through the siphon of the dishwasher you can go leftovers of food that plug the pipes. Clean leftover dishes, put them in the trash, and use racks that prevent solid waste from passing through. Do not throw cooking oil or grease into the dishwasher, as these can be compacted in the nets; put them in jars or bags and throw them in the trash.
With regard to garbage: Collaborate by taking out the garbage at the established times and leaving it arranged in tightly closed bags. Avoid the accumulation of garbage and other debris in storm sewer sinks or near sewers.
On the front of the buildings: The city's sewer collects rainwater through sinkholes installed in the streets. Do not cover them with debris, vehicles, or objects that prevent them from normally collecting water. Contribute to reducing flooding in the city.
In rainwater channels: Do not throw garbage, waste or debris into canals, streams or rivers. This causes water not to flow properly and increases the proliferation of rodents, insects and infections.
