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*Note existing conditions of curbs and other items that might be damaged by winter maintenance activities. | *Note existing conditions of curbs and other items that might be damaged by winter maintenance activities. | ||
*Note or mark all catch basins, manholes, sidewalk segments that may cause a hazard to the plow and the operator. | *Note or mark all catch basins, manholes, sidewalk segments that may cause a hazard to the plow and the operator. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Drainage=== | ||
+ | Inspect storm drains in the fall. Remove obstructions such as leaves, sticks, and trash to prepare for the spring melt. Because storm drains lead to lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands, never use salt to open frozen storm drains. Salt used to thaw frozen drains harms aquatic life. Use non-chemical methods such as heat to open drains. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Poor drainage on the maintenance surfaces will result in icy surfaces and will increase the risk of safety problems. These areas cause the application of salt on non-snow event days in the winter. To remedy this, inventory the site and note drainage problems. Make a checklist so the professional or client can fix these drainage problems in the summer. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Examples of drainage problems: | ||
+ | *Roof that drips on the steps | ||
+ | *Downspout discharging on sidewalk | ||
+ | *Sidewalk segments sloped into a V | ||
+ | *Potholes or low spots in parking lots | ||
+ | |||
+ | '''Storm drains lead to the nearest lake, river, pond, or wetland. They do not go to a treatment plant. ''' |
Start now—develop a maintenance policy or plan that guides winter operations. A little planning and communication up-front can help achieve better results throughout the season.
Our waters are threatened by contracts which are based on fees for material use. This encourages overuse of materials.
Reduce liability. Establish a maintenance policy and follow it.
Reduce risk by having a solid written winter maintenance policy and training program that utilizes best management practices. Schedule training for supervisors, staff, and customers.
The MPCA has three Smart Salting training classes available:
Check the MPCA website to find out about upcoming training opportunities.
Inspect storm drains in the fall. Remove obstructions such as leaves, sticks, and trash to prepare for the spring melt. Because storm drains lead to lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands, never use salt to open frozen storm drains. Salt used to thaw frozen drains harms aquatic life. Use non-chemical methods such as heat to open drains.
Poor drainage on the maintenance surfaces will result in icy surfaces and will increase the risk of safety problems. These areas cause the application of salt on non-snow event days in the winter. To remedy this, inventory the site and note drainage problems. Make a checklist so the professional or client can fix these drainage problems in the summer.
Examples of drainage problems:
Storm drains lead to the nearest lake, river, pond, or wetland. They do not go to a treatment plant.