NI Water customers have been urged to follow guidelines to help keep the sewer network clean.

Members of the public have been warned to only flush toilet roll, as people are buying and using more wet wipes.

NI Water's Angela Halpenny, Head of Environmental Regulation, has issued a reminder to customers that wipes and kitchen roll should not be flushed.

"It is absolutely right that people are taking extra precautions around hygiene at this time, however, if customers need to use alternatives to toilet paper, we want them to put used wipes and kitchen roll in the bin, not down the loo," she continued.

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"These items, along with cotton buds and sanitary products, can cause blockages in the sewer which are difficult to clear and can cause raw sewage to come back up and flood homes, businesses and the environment.  

"If everyone follows the simple message of only flushing the three P's, pee, poo and toilet paper, most out of sewer flooding will be prevented."  

Angela added: "NI Water's priority during the Covid-19 outbreak is to ensure the continued provision of water and wastewater services to customers while maintaining the safety and wellbeing of staff. By following this advice, you will be helping to reduce the number of potential blockages during what is a very challenging time for everyone."

(CM/JG)