Councilmember Michael Johnson's
Arizona Informant Column
Feb. 18, 2004

Phoenix asks you to "cease the grease"

Most of us do a pretty good job maintaining safe and healthy homes.

However, pouring grease down your sink creates more unforeseen safety hazards than you realize.

Did you know that grease build up can block your sewer lines, resulting in loss of service until the line is cleared?

Grease can cause overflows that damage your personal property and may result in costly repairs and plumbing bills.

If grease escapes your drains and makes its way into Phoenix’s sewer system, the high cost of cleaning city sewer lines is charged to each of us.

There is a notion out there that running hot water or detergent down the drain or garbage disposal will minimize grease build up and prevent clogged drains. The fact is that pouring grease down the drain is a hazard and has caused severe problems with our sewer lines.

The City of Phoenix is asking you to “Cease the Grease.”

How can we help keep our drains and the city’s sewer system safe? Never pour grease or cooking oil into sink drains, garbage disposals or toilets. Remember also to pour grease into a can, jar, or plastic bag – seal it – and toss it into your trash can.

And also keep in mind to wipe the remaining grease from the pan with a paper towel, then, scrape food scraps from plates, pots, pans and utensils into the trash.

With your help we can “Cease the Grease,” and keep our sewer lines safe and hazardous free.

Michael Johnson is a Phoenix City Councilmember who represents District 8. His office can be reached at 602-262-7493 or at michael.johnson@phoenix.gov via e-mail.