Storm water household and home tips

Tips on how you can help keep our creeks, lagoons, and ocean clean...

Shop for non-hazardous household cleaning products.
If you use water based paints, rinse paint brushes in the sink. For oil based paints, filter and reuse paint thinner. Dispose of thinner through a household hazardous waste program in your area.
Keep your garbage can and recycling bins clean.
Keep trashcans closed to prevent animals from scattering trash.
To find out more information about sediments and controlling dirt around your home click here.
If you use hazardous substances such as paints, solvents and cleaners, use them sparingly, according to the directions. Store properly to avoid spilling.
If you're working on a home improvement project, dispose of drywall, concrete and mortar in the trash. Don't rinse concrete or mortar into the street.
Participate in local recycling programs. To find out more about recycling in your area call (800) 237-2583

Prevent vehicle fluids such as oil, gas, and antifreeze from entering a storm drain by disposing of them properly.
If you spill fluids, contain it immediately with rags or kitty litter. Clean up the spill and dispose of the waste at a hazardous waste collection site.
Check your car for leaks. If you find leaks or drips have your car repaired to stop the leaks. Keep your car tuned up.
Store hazardous materials properly to prevent spills. Store them in the original closed container.
Dispose of unwanted chemicals at a household hazardous waste collection center in your area. Never pour hazardous materials into the street, sewer or the storm drain! Call for information (877)837-2583.

Pick up after your pet. Dispose of pet waste into the trash or sanitary sewer. Animal waste contains coliform bacteria which is harmful to our health.
Carry a plastic bag when you walk your pet to pick up the waste. Nuisance laws prohibit you from allowing your pet's waste to remain on private or public land.
When treating your pet and yard for fleas or ticks, check with your veterinarian for safe substitutes that will minimize impact to the storm drains and your family. Never dispose of flea dip liquid to the ground or storm drain. It should be disposed as a household hazardous waste.

Conserve water. Don't over water your lawn. Adjust sprinklers if water runs into the gutter. Water during cooler times of the day.
Keep your gutters swept clear of leaves and grass cuttings.
Identify the pests before spraying pesticides. Ask a specialist at your garden center for advice on how to treat for that specific pest.
Only buy pesticides you need in amounts you will use.
Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly and never apply to your lawn or garden if the weather calls for rain.
Check at your local garden center for integrated pest management (IPM) methods to minimize chemical use in your garden. Many IPM methods do not even require use of chemical pesticides!
Create healthy soil by adding compost that contains organic matter and nutrients.
Use drought resistant native plants that conserve water, which reduces runoff. Use mulch instead of herbicides to prevent weeds from growing and to help absorb water.
Pick up trash and litter around your yard.

Courtesy: Think Blue, City of San Diego