Very occasionally escapes from the sewage system cause pollution incidents. Pollution can kill fish and other aquatic life and also affect the use of water and land for agricultural, business and community purposes.
Escapes are commonly caused by the build-up of fats, oils and greases, sanitary waste and wipes; all of which cause blockages and reduce the flow of sewage through the network.
There are many tell-tale signs that pollution has entered a river or a stream. These include:
- sewage solids
- toilet debris such as toilet paper, condoms and sanitary products
- soap suds or a milky-looking discharge in the water
- grey coloured water
- a noticeable sewage smell
If you spot signs of polution in a watercourse please call the Anglian Water Pollution Hotline on 03457 145 145 and inform them of what you've found and where so that they can minimise any environmental impact.