McGraths Hill Wastewater Treatment Plant switched off due to flooding

Hawkesbury City Council has notified the Environment Protection Authority and NSW Health that the McGraths Hill Wastewater Facility has been switched off due to flooding. Four pump stations in the surrounding areas of McGraths Hill, South Windsor and Windsor Downs have been switched off as they are currently submerged by flood waters. Council has 24 pump stations in total and the other 20 pump stations remain switched on.

Council is conducting regular checks on manhole covers in local streets and advises the community to refrain from any water activities in these areas and to notify Council by calling 4560 4444 if a manhole cover is seen dislodged. Dislodged manhole covers are being barricaded. Members of the public are advised to not drive, ride or walk through roads covered by water or any floodwater and to take alternative routes.

Illness prevention during and after flood or sewage backup

If you are faced with cleaning up an area that has been flooded or contaminated with sewage, you may be concerned about the health risks associated with this activity. Follow these steps to reduce your risk:

  • Wash your hands after every contact with the flooded area, after using the toilet, and before eating
  • Wash hands under warm running water
  • Use liquid soap
  • Lather hands for at least 20 seconds
  • Dry hands with a paper towel
  • Have hand sanitiser available
  • Follow appropriate sanitizing procedures
  • Use diluted bleach to sanitise contaminated areas and objects
  • Discard cloth items that cannot be laundered, like stuffed animal toys or pillows
  • Open windows and use fans to ventilate the contaminated area
  • Keep pets out of the flooded area to prevent them from tracking sewage to other areas
  • Dispose of rubbish, including objects like toys and clothing, in leak proof bags and label as contaminated with sewage. Large items that cannot be bagged, such as furniture or carpet, should also be labelled as contaminated with sewage. Warning labels, attached to rubbish that is placed at the curb for pickup, will help prevent other people from salvaging these items
  • Contact your doctor, after hours GP service or hospital if you become ill.
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