Community Action: How Clearing Storm Drains Helps Us All Stay Safe During Thaw Season

Preparing for the Spring Thaw: Calgary’s Steps to Tackle Melting Snow & Ice

With warmer temperatures on the horizon, Calgary is preparing for the spring thaw. While the melting snow is a sign of changing seasons, it also comes with its challenges. Melting snow and ice can cause flooding, especially when storm drains get blocked or frozen. Here's what’s happening and how you can help.

Use our quick navigation guide below to jump to any point of our blog on How Clearing Storm Drains Helps Us All Stay Safe During Thaw Season: 

• What is a Storm Drain and Why Does It Matter?
• What is The City Doing?
• Connect with Neighbors to Tackle Snow and Ice Together
• Watch How to Clear a Storm Drain!
• Steps to Follow
• Interactive Map for Storm Drains
• Stay Safe While Clearing Storm Drains
• How The City Prioritizes Your Requests
• Protect Your Property from Water Damage
• Keep an Eye on Local Weather Alerts
• Consider Rain Barrels for Water Conservation
• Protecting Our Rivers
• Working Together as a Community

What is a Storm Drain and Why Does It Matter?

Storm drains (also known as catch basins) play a crucial role in carrying rainwater and melted snow away from our streets and sidewalks into the underground stormwater system. If these drains get blocked with snow, ice, or debris, it can lead to water pooling on the streets—posing a potential hazard to public safety and property.

What is The City Doing?

To prevent flooding and ensure storm drains are working properly, the City of Calgary is using specialized boiler equipment to thaw frozen storm drains. Crews have already started focusing on areas that have experienced issues with frozen drains in the past. These efforts are designed to keep the drainage system functioning smoothly during the warmer temperatures ahead.

How You Can Help as a Good Neighbor 

Even with the City's efforts, there are many ways you, as a community member, can assist in preventing water damage and making the neighborhood safer. Calgarians are encouraged to check the storm drains near their properties and help clear any debris (leaves, sticks, etc.) or ice and snow blocking the drain.

Here are a few steps you can take:

• Clear storm drains around your property: When it’s safe to do so, remove snow, ice, and debris from around your property’s storm drains. This helps create a channel for the water to flow into the drain.
• Report any issues: If water is pooling or a storm drain seems frozen, report it via the 311 mobile or web app. Don’t forget to include a photo—this will help prioritize your request based on urgency.

Connect with Neighbors to Tackle Snow and Ice Together 

The more people who pitch in, the better! If you are clearing drains or taking other precautions, consider teaming up with your neighbors. Together, you can create a stronger, more effective network for managing the thaw. Helping one another out not only strengthens our neighborhoods but also fosters a sense of connection and community spirit. After all, a little collaboration makes a big impact!

Watch How to Clear a Storm Drain!

Spring is here, and melting snow and ice can quickly lead to water pooling in the streets. One simple way to help keep things flowing smoothly is by clearing your storm drains. Check out this helpful video that walks you through the process of clearing a storm drain near your home.

Steps to Follow

1. Locate the Drain: Find the storm drain near your home. Refer to Calgary’s interactive map to find nearby drains if you’re unsure.
2. Clear Debris: If safe to do so, remove snow, ice, and any other debris from around the drain.
3. Create a Channel: If there's a buildup of ice, create a clear path for water to flow toward the drain.

By watching this video and following the tips, you can help prevent flooding and ensure your storm drain works properly during this busy thaw season! Let’s work together to keep Calgary safe and dry.

Interactive Map for Storm Drains

To help you keep storm drains near your property clear, use the City of Calgary's interactive map. This tool allows you to easily locate nearby storm drains and take action to prevent water pooling and flooding by clearing debris and ice.

View City of Calgary's Interactive Map

Stay Safe While Clearing Storm Drains

Here are some safety tips when clearing storm drains:

• Wear sturdy footwear to prevent slipping on ice.
• Avoid using chemicals or salt around drains, as they can harm the environment.
• Be careful when standing on ice-covered drains to avoid accidents.
• If you encounter large debris, contact the City for assistance rather than trying to move it yourself.

How The City Prioritizes Your Requests  

Since the City is responsible for over 60,000 storm drains, it can be challenging to attend to all of them immediately. If your area is experiencing pooling water, be patient, and if you notice that the pooling has not cleared after 90-120 minutes, submit your concern to 311. Attach a photo of the problem to help the team respond quickly and effectively. 

Storm Drain Locations 

Check out Calgary's interactive map to find storm drain locations in your area. Certain drains may have an inlet control device that intentionally holds water on the street for up to two hours, so be mindful of this while waiting for the water to drain. If you notice water entering a building or vehicle, or if there's a safety issue, be sure to report it immediately.

Protect Your Property from Water Damage 

Along with helping with storm drains, it’s important to maintain your property to prevent flooding caused by melting snow. Here are some simple steps you can take:

• Check grading around your foundation: Ensure that your property is sloped away from your home to prevent water from pooling around the foundation.
• Maintain eavestroughs and downspouts: Regularly clear out leaves and debris to prevent blockages.
• Maintain your sump pump: Make sure it is working properly, and that it discharges water a safe distance (at least two meters) away from your building.
• Ensure proper water flow: Keep swales (grassed or concrete drainage areas) clear of debris and obstructions to avoid any blockages.

Keep an Eye on Local Weather Alerts 

While the forecast shows warmer temperatures, weather conditions can change rapidly. Stay informed and keep an eye on local weather alerts. Being prepared helps you respond to unexpected shifts and ensures you're not caught off guard. This is just one more way we can all work together to protect our homes and our city.

Consider Rain Barrels for Water Conservation 

Spring is a perfect time to think about how we can make the most of the water that's melting. By setting up rain barrels around your property, you can collect runoff and use it for gardening or other outdoor projects. This small change can help reduce water wastage and provide you with a sustainable solution for managing runoff. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way to do your part in preserving our resources!

Protecting Our Rivers

When water enters the storm drain system, it flows directly into Calgary's rivers and streams without treatment. It's crucial not to dispose of waste, chemicals, or ice salt in or near storm drains, as this can harm our environment and water quality. Let’s all do our part to keep our rivers safe.

Drive Carefully

Slushy roads and pooling water can create hazardous driving conditions. As a driver, make sure to slow down, especially in areas where water may mask potholes or debris. By driving cautiously, you’ll help protect yourself and others from potential accidents.

Stay Informed and Prepared

Spring thaw and snowmelt can happen quickly, so staying informed and prepared is key. Check weather updates, follow the City’s progress on thawing storm drains, and continue to report any issues you notice. Working together as a community ensures Calgary is ready for the season ahead!

Working Together as a Community

Whether it’s clearing a drain or checking your own property’s drainage system, small efforts can make a big difference in keeping Calgary safe during the spring thaw. By looking out for each other and helping the City keep storm drains clear, we can minimize flooding risks and help our community thrive.