Keep ice and snow out of storm drains

While most of us pull out the shovel to clear our driveways or sidewalks, Public Works would like to remind everyone to also keep an eye out for storm drains.

“During the winter months, when storm drains are blocked with ice and snow, water flows by, freezes and becomes an icy pool,” Civil Engineer Steve Gurney said. “Residents can help by monitoring their neighborhood drains and keeping the storm drains clear.”

If a storm drain is blocked, use a shovel to clear the top of the grate and break up and remove any built-up ice. It may mean clearing the drain repeatedly as more snow falls, plows pass or ice builds up. Here are some more tips:

• Do not block storm drains with snow shoveled from driveways and sidewalks.
• Never try to remove a storm drain lid.
• Remove snow and ice within a three-foot perimeter of fire hydrants.

If you can do so, aim to keep your storm drain clear year-round. Consider signing up for the adopt-a-storm drain program. It’s a free and easy way to promote clear storm drains and make a difference in the community. For more information, visit blm.mn/drain or call 952-563-4870.