Tips for Rainy Season

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

TIPS TO PREPARE FOR RAINY SEASON

Property owners can take these proactive steps to minimize the potential for flooding and other hazards:

Check Storm Drains Near Your Home

Leaves can clog storm drains and lead to localized flooding. Sweep away leaves that are lying in the gutter or on top of a storm drain prior to rainfall. If you notice a storm drain that is full to the brim with debris, call the City to have it cleaned.

Check Your Trees

The potential for fallen trees during a storm event is higher this year than in the past. With the drought, some trees have had little or no water. The lack of water has severely strained and weakened some trees, making them especially vulnerable during windy conditions. Remove damaged or weak branches to minimize this hazard.

Don't Use Pesticides or Herbicides Before Rain

Otherwise, these pollution sources will make their way into a nearby storm drain and harm Rancho Cordova's creeks and the American River. Click here to learn how you can use nontoxic pesticides and herbicides to control garden pests and weeds.

Here are some other tips to remember:

• Remove leaves and other debris that may be causing a blockage in your storm drain.
• Rake your leaves and debris to prevent flooding and keep your gutters and storm drains clear.
• Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
• If your property has a history of flooding, get sandbags at the locations above before the storm arrives.
• Tie down or properly store outdoor refuse cans, lawn equipment, decorations and any other lightweight objects in your yard.
• Check for unstable fences and gates.
• Check for trees and limbs that may be ready to fall.
• Pet owners should check to be sure pets are secure and safe.
• Don't park over drainage inlets.
• Inventory or prepare a basic emergency kit and store it in an accessible place. The kit should include flashlight, bottled water, battery-powered radio, and extra batteries.
• Do not use generators. Electric generators can cause a power surge back to the main line and injure utility workers working on the power lines. Gas generators can cause build-up of deadly carbon monoxide.
• Become familiar with your SMUD service panel location and how to operate the main circuit breaker. To learn how, call SMUD Customer Service at 1-888-742-7683.
• During the storm, stay away from downed or sagging power lines, streetlights, or traffic signals, and any debris that might be entangled with them.

Source: https://www.cityofranchocordova.org/i-want-to-/prepare-for-a-storm