Storm Drains Flows to the Ocean, Rivers, and Creeks.

Unlike the water that goes down your drain to the sewer, water that flows into storm drains is not treated and filtered for pollutants. This contaminated water flows into canals, into streams and lakes, ending up in the ocean. Everything other than pure rain water is a potential contaminant that degrades water quality. It's very important that you help prevent contaminants from flowing into storm drains and never pour anything into them. Intentionally pouring water and pollutants into street gutters and storm drains is dangerous to the environment and is also illegal.

For more information on how to properly dispose of Oil, Paint, Insecticides, and Fertilizers please visit the California Integrated Waste Management Board website at www.ciwmb.ca.gov

You can do your part in keeping your storm drains clean and free of debris by just being aware. Inform your neighbors about environmental issue caused by improper disposal of house hold chemicals. Have your storm drains clearly marked with “Dump No Waste – Drains To River”. Always keep debris clear of the drains.

A storm drain needs to be working at 100 percent capacity at all times. If a storm hits and the drain cannot accommodate all the water that flows, there may potentially be major flooding which can lead to building and structural damage that may be expensive to repair. A working storm drain is essential for every building, house or home, and that drain needs to be cleaned on a regular basis to keep it working.

1. Put on your rubber gloves. This will protect your hands from any unknown debris and chemical pollution that happens to be clogging the storm drain. Use your flat bladed screwdriver to pry up the storm drain cover. Lift it off and away to expose the actual drain itself. Please keep pets and small children away while working.

2. Clean out the drain. Reach inside with your gloved hands and remove any noticeable gunk or debris. Discard anything you pull out. Clean the drain with your scrub brush. Cover your scrub brush with a toxin- free, biodegradable, plant based cleaner. Scrub the inside of the drain, along the edges and as far down, as your gloved hand will allow.

3. Make sure that you have removed any loose debris from the drain, and rinse the drain with a full bucket of water. This will just tidy up the cleaning process without sending any harmful debris farther down the system. Replace the cover securely.

With most projects in or around your house, if you feel that you are unsure how to properly complete the project, find a professional in your local directory.

It is your responsibility to make sure that our environment is protected from the Lakes to Ocean, Rivers and Streams, starting from your home and yard. It’s just 1 thing you can do to help.

Post a Notification for your neighbors by marking the storm drain with a reminder. Just visit www.green-kits.com for instructions and materials.