Fried turkey is a popular and festive entrée that will have a place on many tables this holiday. But beware, what happens after the meal could be expensive for you and harmful to the environment.
Many times, fats, oil and grease from meat, cooking oil, lard margarine and butter are washed down the kitchen sink. Improperly disposing of FOG can cause property damage, health hazards and environmental problems.
Pipes may be blocked by oils poured directly into the sink and as sewer pipes back up. Property damage from sewage backups can result in expensive clean-ups and plumbing repairs. Clogged sewers also may lead to overflows, which can runoff into the street and into the storm drain system, consequently polluting Garland creeks and streams.
How you can reduce the harmful effects of FOG:
- Filter and freeze used cooking oil once it has cooled and reuse it for another meal.
- Small amounts of cooking oil, such as meat drippings, can be soaked up with a paper towel and thrown in the trash.
- After it has cooled, pour used cooking oil into a sturdy, closed-lid container (like a coffee can) and dispose of it at: Dallas County Home Chemical Collection Center, located at 11234 Plano Road. For hours of operation, call 214-553-1765.
Information provided by the city of Garland.