Saraland Reports 900-Gallon Sewer Overflow Into Norton Creek; Health Officer Urges Residents to Avoid Contact
A line blockage caused by rags and grease led to a sanitary sewer overflow on Oct. 31 at 612 Oakmont Street. An estimated 900 gallons reached a storm drain that empties into Norton Creek.
SARALAND, Ala. — Saraland Water and Sewer Service has reported a sanitary sewer overflow that sent an estimated 900 gallons of wastewater into a storm drain leading to Norton Creek.
The overflow happened Oct. 31 at a manhole located at 612 Oakmont Street. Officials said the cause was a line blockage created by rags and grease.
What a sewer overflow is
A sanitary sewer overflow happens when untreated or partially treated sewage leaves the sewer system before it reaches a wastewater treatment plant, such as through a manhole, broken pipe, pump station or building cleanout. Sewage can contain bacteria, viruses and parasites that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, skin infections and other illnesses.
How to stay safe
Mobile County Health Officer Dr. Kevin Michaels reminded residents to:
- Avoid contact with affected water, soil and any obvious sewage
- Keep children and pets away from ditches, creeks, flooded areas and standing water that may be contaminated
- Not swim, wade or fish in posted areas or in water that looks or smells contaminated
Most importantly, officials said, anyone who comes into contact with possibly contaminated water or soil should wash skin and clothing thoroughly with soap and clean water as soon as possible.
