Basement Backup Prevention Tips

Flood Prevention Tips

Here are a few tips that can help prevent flooding:

• If you have a rain gutter or sump pump connected to a sanitary line simply disconnect it, and let the water discharge onto the lawn. These connections are directly contributing factors to the sanitary sewer flood backups.
• There are over 5000 manholes and catch basins going to the sanitary district. During a rain event, there is just not enough manpower to cover all of these. So we ask you the public to lend a helping hand. If you see a drain along the curb line covered in debris, simply clear out the debris in front of the manhole so water can flow into the drain.
• If you have any questions on sump pumps or downspouts call us at East Chicago Storm Water Quality Management Department 219-391-8773, and we can do an inspection for you.

Five Reasons Downspouts  Must Be Disconnected

Downspouts connected to the Combined Sewer System (CSS) of East Chicago also deposit leaves, twigs, paper, plastic and other miscellaneous debris which can block a combined sewer leading to sewer back-ups.

1. During major storm events, direct storm water flow from downspouts to the CSS of East Chicago can exceed the capacity of some sewers leading to residential storm water and/or sewage back-ups.
2. During minor rain events, direct storm water from downspouts to the CSS of East Chicago means increased treatment and operating expenses to the District, which in turn are reflected in higher sewer user rates for all residents, business owners and industrial customers.
3. It's the law according to Ordinance Number 2835. For help and/or assistance in disconnecting your downspouts, call the East Chicago Sanitary District at 219-391-846.
4. Those who do not disconnect burden the pipes, burden the CSS, jeopardize their own personal belongings and jeopardize the belongings of their neighbors.