Toronto Water: Summer Tips

With warm weather finally upon us, Toronto Water has been reminding residents about the things they can do to help prevent flooding, conserve water and protect their homes.

Gardening

• Use rainwater to water your grass and gardens.

• Sweep sidewalks and driveways clean instead of using a running hose.

• Start planning a water-efficient, natural garden using native plants and trees.

Car washing

• The dirt on cars can contain toxic chemicals, heavy metals, oil and grease. To avoid having dirty water run into the storm sewer system, consider washing your car in a commercial car wash facility (these facilities are required to follow a set of practices determined by the city, including treating wastewater and discharging it into the sanitary sewer system where it will receive further treatment).

Basement flooding

• Clear eavestroughs and downspouts of debris.

• Disconnect downspouts that empty into the City’s sewer system.

• Don’t flush disposable wipes down the toilet.

• Install a back-water valve or basement sump pump.