In an event like a natural disaster, toilet systems are likely to be affected through broken pipes, flooding of the sewerage system or breakdown of the pumping machinery. Human waste can spread disease.
You will need a makeshift toilet if your toilet cannot be used.
How to make a temporary toilet
- Line a bucket or rubbish bin with a strong, leak-proof plastic bag.
- Put half a cup of liquid bleach in the bag.
- Make a seat from 2 planks of wood or use a toilet seat on top of the container.
- Keep the bin completely covered when not in use, to prevent attracting flies.
- Tie the top of the bag firmly when full and place it inside another bag.
- Dig a hole well away from the vegetable garden and downhill from any water source and bury the bag.
- Make sure the bag is well covered with dirt.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after going to the toilet or handling human waste.
How to make a long-drop toilet
- Dig a hole up to 1 metre deep well away from the vegetable garden and any water source.
- Make a seat out of planks of wood.
- Cover the waste properly with dirt after each use.
- Throw in a little garden lime, insecticide or disinfectant to reduce smells and flies.
- Use the long-drop until it is full to within 300 mm of ground level.
- Cover completely with soil and dig a new long-drop.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after going to the toilet or handling human waste.