Residential Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG)
What is Residential FOG?
FOG is Fats, Oils, and Grease left over from food preparation that is often washed down the sink drain. FOG cools in the drain, separates from water, and sticks to the walls of pipes. It builds up over time and can clog or block the pipes completely, resulting in sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs). FOG related overflows can cause raw sewage to back up into homes, businesses, and neighborhoods, leading to costly property damage, environmental damage, and civil penalties and fines. FOG causes the majority of all dry weather SSOs within the City of Fort Smith.
Common Sources of FOG:
What can I do as a resident to help prevent FOG from entering the sewer system?
Seal It
Pour cooled oil into the trash or a covered container.
Scrape It
Scrape leftover food and grease into the trash can before washing.
Wipe It
Wipe the rest of the grease away with paper towels.
JUST TRASH IT. Put fats, oils, and grease in the trash – NEVER down the drain.
FACT: Washing FOG down the drain with hot water, detergents, or using garbage disposals does not help.
DON'T Rinse It
Rinsing dishes with hot water does not prevent grease from hardening in the pipes.
DON'T Grind It
Garbage disposals won’t remove FOG. Chopped up, greasy food still causes clogs.
DON'T Chase It
Chasing grease with soap or detergents does not dissolve the problem.
Get the whole family involved!
Help us prevent FOG from entering the Fort Smith sewer system. Through engaging characters and fun activities, our Children’s Education Program stresses the importance of keeping FOG out of the drains.
FOG Resources:
Click to view and download educational materials.