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How to Clear Snow From Storm Drains

A heavy snow storm might give you an excuse to remain indoors for a couple of days. The snow might barricade your car in the driveway and completely cover your sidewalk and porch. Your city's Department of Transportation is responsible for clearing snow and ice from the roadways. But if heavy snow completely covers the opening of the storm drains in front of your house, you can assist the city by clearing snow from the drains. Keeping drain openings clear reduces the chances of flooding once the snow starts to melt.

Things You'll Need

  • Shovel
  • Broom
  • Salt
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove impacted snow from storm drain openings. Rather than push impacted snow down the storm drain, attempt to scoop the snow onto the pavement with a small hand shovel.

    • 2

      Check your property for a place to unload shoveled snow. Do not shovel snow from around storm drains into the street. This might create a driving hazard. Choose a location like the driveway or yard.

    • 3

      Clear the path around the storm drain with a long-handled shovel. Unload shoveled snow into the designated area.

    • 4

      Brush the shoveled area around the storm drain and surrounding pavement with a broom or snow duster to remove any traces of snow.

    • 5

      Apply salt to the area around the storm drain. Snow remnants can freeze as the temperature drops and create a slick surface around the storm drain. Applying salt reduces freezing and lowers the risk of injury.