Catch Basins: A catch basin is a structure that collects rainwater and prevents debris from entering the drainage system. It helps prevent flooding and keeps the system clear of pollutants. During winter months, it’s important to keep catch basins free of snow and ice. This allows proper drainage during thaw cycles and helps prevent flooding when the weather warms up. To keep catch basins working at their best in your neighbourhood:
- Keep ice and snow from collecting near catch basins, and help keep leaves and yard waste from roadways, ditches, and sidewalks.
- Dispose of litter properly to prevent blockages in the sewer system.
- Report any issues by calling 905-546-2489 for removal.
To report misuse of a catch basin, such as litter or pollutants, to report spills—any unusual release of pollutants, or request maintenance—call the City of Hamilton at 905-546-2489 (CITY). Connecting directly with an operator via the 24/7 Contact Center helps to ensure prompt cleanup, investigation, and prevention. Catch Basin and Street Drain Use
Keep Hydrants Clear: Remember to shovel an area around fire hydrants, ensuring they remain visible and accessible for emergency responders. Winter Fire Safety
Frozen Pipe Awareness and Prevention: Protect your homes from frozen pipes. This video contains helpful tips: How to Keep Your Pipes from Freezing, and more information can be found on the Frozen Pipes page of our website.
Winter Safety Around Stormwater Ponds: Ice depth can vary significantly across the surface of stormwater ponds, and the continuous flow of water makes ice conditions unstable. Ponds collect runoff from roadways that contain salt, lowering the freezing temperature of the water. Air pockets can easily form in the ice, posing additional risks. Even if a stormwater pond appears fully frozen, it is important to stay off the ice. The ice may still be unstable, and there may be areas of open water beneath the surface. Many of these ponds are located in remote areas, far from help. It is imperative to stay off any ice surface, including stormwater ponds, regardless of their appearance. Stormwater Management Ponds.
Turn Off Your Water When You Go Away: Turning off the water when you go away protects your property. The City of Hamilton Leak Protection Program will not cover unattended homes that have not had the building control water valve turned off and the plumbing system drained. Homes left without heat for any period are also at risk. To request a water turn-off at the curb, call the City Contact Center at 905-546-2489 (CITY). There is a fee for this service. Water Efficient Homes
These important messages will help ensure the safety and well-being of our community throughout the winter season.
Brad Clark Report 
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