PUBLIC NOTICE
PREVENTION OF WATER PROBLEMS
The Town of Grand Bay-Westfield Works Department would like to make
some suggestions as to how homeowners can take a proactive approach to
help prevent water problems during the winter months when the ground is
frozen.
Please note, the steps listed below may or may not apply in each
case.
1. ....
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Prior to winter, locate the foundation drain from your home and
mark it with a long stick, metal rod or pipe so it will be visible above
the snow for ease of locating, if required. Please ensure the end
of the drain is free and clear of grass, leaves, sticks, etc. Periodically
inspect the drain to ensure it is free and clear, especially when the weather
forecast is calling for a heavy rain. Foundation drains are the responsibility
of the homeowner.
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2.
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Homeowners with ditches and culverts should inspect the ditches
to ensure nothing will block the flow of water such as crazy carpets, basketballs,
soccer balls, sleds, toy trucks, etc.
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3.
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Homeowners with a driveway culvert should, if at all possible when
shoveling, try to avoid placing wet snow and slush over the ends of the
culvert as the wet snow turns to ice when temperatures drop causing the
culvert to become blocked.
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4.
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In areas with catch basins, if possible, try to keep catch basins
clear to allow surface water to enter.
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5.
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If you suspect a problem with a culvert, catch basin or ditch being
frozen, please contact the Town at 738-6422, as soon as possible, to allow
time for corrective measures to be taken.
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6.
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If your home is in an area known for underground springs, try and
control the sheeting of ice in the winter by directing it away from your
home. If at all possible, locate the underground spring and pipe
it away to the ditch or the storm sewer.
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7.
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Do not bank snow up around your basement as it prevents water from
draining away from your home.
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8.
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Keep all snow banks away from basement windows and basement entrances.
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9.
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If your home has had water problems in the past, pay special attention
to the weather forecast so you can be prepared for the heavy rains in the
winter.
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Any assistance residents can provide to control and/or prevent surface
water or ground water from running down their driveways would be greatly
appreciated. Depending on weather conditions, this water often freezes
on the road causing a safety hazard to motorists and pedestrians.
At such times additional workers and contractors need to be brought in
to remove the ice buildup resulting in the Town incurring additional winter
maintenance costs. Again, any assistance from residents in controlling
this surface water would be greatly appreciated by the Works Department
and the Town of Grand Bay-Westfield.
Grand Bay-Westfield Works Department |
