Starting Thursday, October 30
In anticipation of the heavy rainfall forecast starting tomorrow, Thursday, October 30, we ask all citizens to take the necessary precautions to help prevent sewer backups in their homes.
Please:
- Ensure that storm drains near your residence are clear of fallen leaves;
- Remove leaves from ditches to prevent water flow from carrying them into culverts and causing blockages;
- Make sure your home's gutters direct water away from the foundation;
- Clear basement window wells, if applicable;
- Ensure your sump pump is functioning properly and that the outdoor discharge pipe is unobstructed;
- Avoid using toilets, showers, washing machines, or sinks located in the basement during peak of the rainfall event. Indeed, if the street sewer lines become full during the storm, water from the municipal system could put pressure on your home’s backwater valves, keeping them closed. In that case, it would be impossible to drain household water into the system, which could result in a backup through your basement drains.
Please exercise caution and stay safe!