EXCRETA DISPOSAL We will not consider this question from the standpoint con sidered previously. The prompt and regular elimination of the feces and urine bears an important relationship to health. Irregularity in these habits promotes constipation, and also the absorption of toxins from the fecal residue that impair health and mental efficiency. Consequently the education of an individual in the regular evacuation of the bowels, with most persons at least once daily, is of great importance. This is facilitated by providing a place for the evacuation of the bowels and bladder kept suitably clean and inoffensive, and where an individual is not exposed to extremes of temperature or incle ment weather. The indoor closet must be regarded as a great improvement in domestic sanitation and one which has well nigh reached perfection. Any of the types of water flush closets on the market at present may be regarded as satisfactory. While the operation of these is dependent upon an abundant supply of running water, yet those whose homes are without running water can avail themselves of the convenience of indoor facilities for the discharge of the excreta. One of the best means for this purpose are the so-called chemical closets, in which the excreta are received in a pail or tank of caustic solu tion, which effects their disintegration and disinfection. These
however are not automatic and require attention.
If neither of these means are available, the pit privy suitably located with regard to the water supply, must be regarded as the next best substitute. It should have a water tight pit or vault, and be of fly proof construction. Various types of privies have been designed and have given varying degrees of satisfactory service. All that are water tight and fly tight will probably give satisfactory and safe service if properly attended, though some require frequent attention, especially the changing of the receptacles for the receipt of the excreta. Since such details are apt to be neglected and hence interfere with the satisfactory operation of the privy, the types recommended above are best as they require the least attention.
Isolated rural dwellings that, have a supply of running water may enjoy the advantages of an indoor closet. The sewage may be received into a leaching cesspool or septic tank, preferably the latter, the overflow from which is disposed of by sub-surface irrig4tion. Such disposal methods must be care fully located with regard to the domestic water supply.