Due to the forecast of heavy rain beginning late tonight, Tuesday, February 2nd into Wednesday, February 3rd, The Department of Public Works is requesting assistance from citizens and area businesses
MEDIA RELEASE
DPW Ask for Citizens/Business Owners Assistance with Clearing Storm Drain Intakes Due to Forecast of Heavy Rain
Map of Storm Drain Locations Available
Frederick, MD, February 2, 2016 – Due to the forecast of heavy rain beginning late tonight, Tuesday, February 2nd into Wednesday, February 3rd, The Department of Public Works is requesting assistance from citizens and area businesses. The combination of heavy rain and warm temperatures coupled with the remaining snow/ice from the recent historic snow presents conditions for possible flooding.
DPW is asking citizens to clear snow, ice and debris from storm drain intakes near homes and/or businesses and to check periodically to be sure the drain intake area remain free of debris and leaves. City crews are presently working to clear snow/debris from storm drain intakes and will continue to clear and monitor them.
If you are unsure whether a storm drain is located near your residence or business, a map of storm drain locations in The City of Frederick can be found at
http://www.cityoffrederick.com/DocumentCenter/View/5430 .
This information can also be found on the City website homepage under “Topics of Interest” at www.cityoffrederick.com.
A printable version of the map can be found on the GIS page in the printable maps section at http://www.cityoffrederick.com/index.aspx?nid=522
The City of Frederick has over 5,000 storm drain intakes and it is imperative to keep the drains open and cleared of debris. This helps to reduce the possibility of flooding and prevents water from accumulating on streets, sidewalks and yards.
The Department of Public Works appreciates the assistance of citizens and business owners.
In events of heavy rains and high water accumulation, home and business owners should prepare by doing the following:
• Listen to local officials for updates and instructions. Citizens are highly encouraged to sign up for Alert Frederick County to receive weather alerts, traffic alerts and more at http://www.frederickcountymd.gov/4727/Emergency-Alerts
• Check-in with family and friends by texting or using social media.
• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Avoid flood water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines and may hide dangerous debris or places where the ground is washed away.
• If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
• If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children and pets out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
• Watch out for debris and downed power lines. Trim or remove damaged trees and limbs to keep you and your property safe.
• Secure loose rain gutters and downspouts and clear any clogged areas or debris to prevent water damage to your property.
• Reduce property damage by retrofitting to secure and reinforce the roof, windows and doors, including the garage doors.
• Purchase a portable generator or install a generator for use during power outages. Remember to keep generators and other alternate power/heat sources outside, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors and protected from moisture; and NEVER try to power the house wiring by plugging a generator into a wall outlet.
For additional information contact Susan Harding at susan@cityoffrederick.com or 301.600.1385
###