Stafford County, VA – With the holiday cooking season underway, Stafford County officials are urging residents to keep fats, oils, and grease—commonly known as “FOG”—out of household drains to prevent sewer clogs and backups.
According to Stafford County Government, increased cooking during the holidays often leads to grease being poured down sinks, where it can harden inside pipes and contribute to blockages in both home plumbing and the public sewer system. These clogs can cause slow drains, sewage overflows, and costly repairs for homeowners and municipalities.
County officials say preventing FOG buildup is simple by following one key rule: “Can It, Cool It, Toss It.” Residents are advised to pour leftover grease into a heat-safe container, allow it to cool and solidify, and then dispose of it in the trash rather than rinsing it down the drain.
FOG buildup is a leading cause of sanitary sewer overflows, which can result in environmental damage and health risks if wastewater backs up into homes or spills into local waterways. Officials stress that even small amounts of grease can accumulate over time, especially during busy cooking periods like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations.
In addition to grease, residents are reminded to keep food scraps, coffee grounds, and paper products out of drains and garbage disposals, as these items can worsen blockages when combined with fats and oils.
Stafford County encourages residents to take preventative steps now to avoid plumbing issues later in the season. More information and holiday sewer safety tips can be found on the county’s official website.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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