Handling Human Wastes In An Emergency

In times of flooding and tornado damage the water flush toilets and sewage systems may be destroyed or temporarily interrupted. Accumulation of human waste and garbage can cause serious problems with insects and rats. The following procedures will allow you to control waste material, and prevent problems.

Temporary Means for Handling Human Wastes

1. Follow instructions to locate sewage disposal facilities near your area, if possible.
2. Use a metal or heavy plastic garbage can lined with a plastic bag, and fitted with a toilet seat made from a seat from an old chair by cutting a hole in it; or use a toilet seat from the fixture in your home. Also, any self-contained portable camping toilet or portable commode can be used.
3. These plastic liners can be removed from the can and tied together or secured and stored until collection is made.
4. The garbage can should be fitted with a tight fitting lid when not in use.
5. Once it is safe to go outside, or flood waters recede, human wastes could be buried under 12-24 inches of dirt.
6. Pits can be dug for "privies" when flood waters recede, or are not a danger. These pits should be dug at least 4-5 feet deep and should not be dug within 50 feet of a well or spring or other water supply nor in any area subject to flooding.
7. A regular sprinkling of lime, household bleach or creosol in any emergency toilet will control odor and insects.

How to Handle Garbage

1. Strain away liquids.
2. After straining, wrap in several layers of newspapers and store in a large garbage can with a tight-fitting lid.
3. When feasible, bury under 12-24 inches of dirt to discourage rats and other pests from digging it up.