If you have a septic tank on your property, there may come a day where you need to perform maintenance. In such a case, it is extremely important that you do so with caution. Septic tanks can cause accidental injuries. As such, it is important that you take the proper precautions when working with or near one. Here are some septic tank Pueblo CO safety tips to help you on your way:
1) Use a sturdy lid.
Having a sturdy, robust lid is extremely important when you own a septic tank. The is especially true if you have children. This is a lid that should not be easily removed. Having a sturdy septic tank lid that is difficult to remove could prevent someone from falling in (especially small children).
Septic Tank Pueblo CO safety tips.
2) Mark your lid.
In addition to having a strong, sturdy lid it should also be well marked. The lid of your septic tank should be easy to identify. It may also be a good idea to write “keep away” or some kind of notice on the lid to warn children of danger.
3) Never lean over the tank.
Unless you need to open the lid, never lean over your septic tank. Septic tanks release strong and toxic gases that could cause harm if ingested. In severe cases, these gases could cause a loss of consciousness. As a good rule of thumb; if you don’t need to go near your septic system – don’t.
4) Avoid open flames near your tank.
As mentioned above, septic tanks release toxic gases. One of these gases, known as methane, is very explosive. Something as small as a lit cigarette can cause your tank to combust, so keep even small flames away.
5) Always work with a friend.
If you do have to work on your septic tank, have a friend alongside. There are several different hazards that come along with working on a septic tank. As such, it is always a good idea to have someone there to help you if something should go wrong. Having a friend nearby can help to prevent accidents like falling in, so never skip this step.
6) Be aware of electrical hazards.
Sometimes you don’t need to work on your septic tank, but around it. In such cases, it is important to be aware of any electrical hazards that may be underground. If you strike one of these wires, you could end up with an electrical shock. Risk increases when using a metal shovel to dig. In addition, sparks could ignite, again causing your tank to implode.
7) Avoid heavy machinery
This is more of a money-saving tip than it is a safety tip. Heavy machinery can cause damage to your septic tank. This is especially true if you are passing over the ground that covers it. To avoid any need for costly repairs, just avoid running anything heavy over the area surrounding your tank.
8) Educate your family.
Your family should also know the rules of septic tank safety. This is especially true if you have small, curious children. The best advice would be to tell your children to stay away from the tank altogether. But in case they decide to explore despite your best warnings, it is important that you emphasize to stay away from the opening.
9) NEVER enter a tank.
This is by far the most important safety rule you can follow in regards to your tank. Unless you have been specially trained and have the proper equipment, NEVER enter your septic tank. Death from septic tank accidents DO occur, and most occur because proper measures are not taken. Even if someone has fallen in a tank, you should not go in after them. If you do, you are putting both them and yourself at risk. Call the appropriate emergency services instead.
10) Call a septic tank Pueblo CO professional.
If you’re ever in doubt about your septic tank, just call in a professional for help. There are many safety hazards that come along with working on such a system. Unless you are properly trained, performing maintenance or repairs on your own septic system can put you in harm's way. If your septic system is in need of repair, go the safe route and call in a trained professional.
Of course, there are things that you can do from inside the house to help prevent the need for septic repairs. Here are a few:
1) Repair leaky plumbing fixtures immediately. Did you know that a leaky toilet can waste up to 2000 gallons of water in a day? This can cause an overload to your septic system. If you notice you have a leak, fix it immediately.
2) Conserve water. On average, you should be using about 50 gallons of water per day per person. Anything more is unnecessary. Not good at water conservation? Here are a few tips to help you cut back:
-Take shorter showers. Or only fill your bathtub halfway.
-Shut the water off when brushing teeth, washing hands, etc.
-Wait until you have a full load to wash dishes and clothes.
-Invest in water-saving devices.
-Use low-flush model toilets.
3) Turn off the water when going on vacation. If you are going away for a few days or more, turn off your water. This is especially important during cold months when your pipes are more at risk of breaking.
How can a septic tank Pueblo CO specialist help you?
In addition to ensuring your safety, there are many other things a septic tank specialist can do:
1) Pumping: The process of pumping out your septic tank and removing water to an appropriate facility. A septic tank specialist can ensure your waste is removed safely and in accordance with proper environmental standards. You should pump your tank every 3-5 years.
2) Repair and installation: A septic tank specialist can help to install your tank. They can also help to ensure it stays in peak operating condition.
3) Repair drain fields: A specialist can help to repair or replace pipes and lines to keep your tank running efficiently and trouble-free.
If you have a septic tank, call septic tank Pueblo CO pros today for help. A professional can help you to safely install, manage, and repair your system on an as-needed basis. So give us a call today!