It’s slowly but surely getting warmer in Prince George.
‘March melting’ is upon us, which means residents and visitors to B.C.’s northern capital could see large puddles and ponds of water pop up as the season changes to Spring.
The City is hoping to mitigate flooding or traffic issues by monitoring its 5,500-plus storm drains and unclogging those causing problems by water and built-up ice.
A 3-1-1 phone service is in place for people to report drainage issues.
“The City of Prince George encourages residents to call 3-1-1 and report large puddles or flooding concerns to the City as this also helps us prioritize and plan,” says Wil Wedel, the City’s Manager of Utilities in a news release, who has almost 40 people on his crew working around town.
Prince George’s Roads and Fleet Division also provides the necessary equipment, including snow plows, to address any and all open ditch drainage issues.
On top of calling the 3-1-1 line, local residents are encouraged to explore other options of getting in contact with the City.
This includes:
- Calling 250-561-7600, if outside City limits
- Emailing 311@princegeorge.ca
- Visiting the City’s Service Centre at 1100 Patricia Blvd.
- Submitting a service request via the City website or app
There are also ways for property owners to help avoid large puddle too.
“Sandbagging, tarping, ditching, and clearing clogged drains and culverts are all effective measures for reducing the risk of flooding,” adds Wedel in the release. “Residents with houses at risk for basement flooding are advised to have sump pumps available and to be prepared to work with neighbours to divert water to the closest storm drains.”
Residents can also remove debris such as leaves, plastic, or paper are not covering nearby storm drains, and to not use sprinklers to melt snow and ice as you could be fined.
City crews are ready for "melting season." Are you? If you spot a large puddle, dial 3-1-1 to report it! - https://t.co/F4LL1r0Mrg pic.twitter.com/kWu7HfSq0e
— Prince George, BC (@CityofPG) March 8, 2019
