if possible. Experience has shown, however, that thousands of houses have been drained into cesspools, not only conveniently but without the slightest discoverable sanitary injury; and sanitary science now recognizes in the septic tank (a special form of cesspool) a useful and popular means of sewage disposal (Fig. 117). <Callout type="important" title="Important">Septic tanks are an effective alternative to traditional cesspools.</Callout>
Irrigation and Subsurface Disposal of Sewage. — Another method often successful, especially in soil which is open and porous, i.e. in sandy soil, is that of simply discharging the sewage upon the surface of land set apart for the purpose at a distance from the house. This method may be recommended in many cases, but is often less satisfactory than the use of a well-regulated cesspool. A modification of it, in which the sewage is distributed under, instead of upon, the surface by means of a system of branching pipes loosely laid, is frequently preferable, even in the same porous or sandy soil; but neither of these methods is to be recommended as compared with the cess- pool, if the soil is impervious or clayey. <Callout type="risk" title="Risk">Sandy soils may not effectively filter sewage, leading to contamination.</Callout>
The Care and Disposal of Garbage is a matter of much importance both to the housekeeper and to the community. Garbage consists chiefly of the more solid refuse from the kitchen and, since it is composed of the remnants of food, — bits of meat and fish, either cooked or raw, bones, vegetables, fruit, and the like,—itis highly putrescible. On the farm, garbage may be fed to swine, and in many towns and cities it is collected by farmers and used to maintain large (and often offensive) piggeries, in or near a city or town. More rarely, garbage is fed to milch cows, the milk from such cows being known as swill milk ; but this use of garbage is rightly forbidden by boards of health. In the house, garbage is simply a nuisance, to be got rid of as quickly and as completely as possible. It should be either burned (in which case disagreeable odors are often produced), or kept as short a time as possible in a clean receptacle in or near the kitchen. The garbage receptacle is usually the dirtiest and foulest smelling household utensil. Nothing about the house requires more careful attention. The receptacle itself should be of metal rather than wood; it should be no larger than is necessary, because a small can is easier than a large one to keep clean; it <Callout type="tip" title="Tip">should have a tight-fitting cover</Callout> and should be kept where dogs and cats cannot overturn or open it. Above all, it should be frequently emptied and cleaned.
The Disposal of Ashes, Dirt, and Refuse is perhaps as much a question of good taste as of sanitation. Nothing is more unsightly than a dump, especially if its papers, boxes, and other combustible materials are set on fire, as often happens, and left to smolder. In towns and cities ashes and rubbish (as well as garbage) are usually removed periodically by public carts, but isolated householders must ordinarily look after their refuse disposal themselves; and of all methods, burial in pits, when possible, is the least objectionable. For garbage, especially, when a piggery is undesirable and cremation not possible, burial in sandy land at a distance from the house has much to recom- mend it.
Key Takeaways
- Septic tanks are an effective alternative to traditional cesspools for sewage disposal.
- Sandy soils may not effectively filter sewage, leading to contamination.
- Proper garbage disposal is crucial to prevent putrescence and disease.
Practical Tips
- Use a tight-fitting cover on your garbage receptacle to keep it clean and odor-free.
- Regularly empty and clean the garbage receptacle to avoid attracting pests.
- Consider using a septic tank instead of a cesspool for better sewage treatment.
Warnings & Risks
- Sewage disposal in sandy soil may not be effective, leading to contamination risks.
- Improper garbage management can lead to putrescence and disease spread.
- Using swill milk from pigs fed on garbage is dangerous and forbidden by health boards.
Modern Application
While the specific methods described in this chapter are outdated, the principles of proper sewage disposal and waste management remain crucial for modern survival. Septic tanks have evolved to be more efficient and environmentally friendly, while the importance of regular refuse disposal has only increased with urbanization. Understanding these basics can help prevent contamination and disease spread in any setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a septic tank and how does it work?
A septic tank is a special form of cesspool that acts as a holding area for sewage, allowing solids to settle at the bottom while grease floats to the top. The settled solids are broken down by bacteria over time, treating the wastewater before it is released into the soil.
Q: Why should I use a tight-fitting cover on my garbage receptacle?
A tight-fitting cover prevents odors from escaping and keeps pests like rats and flies from accessing your garbage. This helps maintain cleanliness in your home and reduces the risk of disease spread.
Q: What are some safe methods for disposing of garbage if I don't have a piggery?
Garbage can be buried in sandy land at a distance from the house, which allows natural decomposition. Alternatively, it can be burned, though this may produce disagreeable odors. In urban areas, public carts often collect and dispose of garbage safely.