Back to Search
Tuesday, February 27, 2024 (Muskoka, ON) - With the winter weather shifting weekly, melting snow and ice are causing some trouble around catch basins in Muskoka.
The District of Muskoka is asking residents to step up as neighbourhood Catch Basin Champions to help keep roadways safe. Clearing snow and ice from catch basins near or on your property will prevent water from pooling and flooding, making roads safer for everyone.
Catch basins are like unsung heroes of our neighbourhoods. These metal grates on the side of the road in urban areas work hard to keep roads from flooding by taking away excess water to stormwater management ponds and eventually to area lakes and rivers. We need to treat catch basins right so they can do their job - that means ensuring they are cleared of snow, ice and debris and making sure we don’t put anything but rainwater and snow melt down them.
With more than 1,000 catch basins spread across Muskoka, Catch Basin Champions will help play an important role in keeping our roadways safe and clear for everyone to use.
Materials that don’t belong in catch basins include:
- Chemicals;
- Construction material;
- Food; and
- Residential, Hazardous and Yard wastes.
Please follow the below safety guidelines:
- Use a long-handled shovel, broom or rake to clear away materials;
- Stay visible with bright clothing or a safety vest when clearing a catch basin;
- Be aware of traffic and stay off the travelled portion of the roadway whenever possible; and
- Do not attempt to move or pick up hazardous materials like needles, broken glass, or deceased wildlife.
To report hazardous materials blocking a catch basin or concerns with water, sewer or street flooding, report them at www.muskoka.on.ca or by telephone at 705-645-2100.
-30-
Protecting the health and safety of residents and visitors to Muskoka - it's what we do.
The District of Muskoka is made up of six area municipalities and is responsible for delivering critical public services and programs to residents in our community. Visit our website at www.muskoka.on.ca.
For updates by email, subscribe to News Updates on our website.
Media Relations
media@muskoka.on.ca
Subscribe