When there is a heavy rain event, storm water runs from
lawns, parks, and driveways onto the road and ultimately drains down into the
catchbasins of the storm water drainage system. This water is then released
directly into the Thames River. Since storm water is not treated, it is up to
all London residents to ensure that only clean water goes into the storm sewer.
-
Do not pour anything down the road drain that you
would not want to put directly into a river or stream
-
Household special waste such as chemicals, old
paint, grease, and oil should be disposed of properly
-
Use eco-friendly cleansers to wash your car
-
Limit the amount of fertilizers you use on your lawn
-
Ensure your vehicle is not leaking any fluids such
as oil
-
Dispose of animal wastes properly
-
Use a rain barrel to harvest, re-use, and conserve
water
-
Increase the ability of your property to catch rain
water by providing permeable surfaces like gravel and vegetation around your
house allowing ground water and local creeks to replenish while reducing the
strain on the stormwater system
-
Use natural weed and pest controls
-
Collect and properly dispose of lawn debris such as
grass clippings, leaves, twigs, stones, and pet waste.
-
Keep the sewer grate clean of debris
-
Wash your car at a car wash where water is recycled
or on a grassy patch of your property so that water is absorbed into the
soil.
-
In general, nothing but rain water should go down
the storm drain.
-
Sweep your sidewalk and driveway instead of washing
it down
-
Get involved in a storm drain marking program such
as the Yellow Fish Road program
-
Keep water from running off your property
-
Develop a rain garden in your yard