Town officials are asking residents to "work with their neighbors to clear storm drains in front of their property and along their roadway."
With forecasters predicting a high possibility that Hurricane Sandy will bring heavy rains and high winds to the East Coast, Andover's Department of Public Works wants to ensure that Andover is as prepared as possible. It says that it cannot clear all storm drains in town on its own before the predicted arrival of the storm.
"There are over 4,000 storm drains/catchbasins in the Town of Andover," the department stated in a release Friday afternoon. "The DPW has had multiple crews out clearing the storm drains on a daily basis. However, the trees have been dropping the fall foliage quickly which makes it impossible to clear all drains by Sunday evening.
"Town leaders are asking that residents check the storm drains, rake leaves away from the drain (not into the drain), and to dispose of the leaves and debris in yard waste bins or brown paper leaf bags. Do not remove the storm grates," the release continues. "The DPW would like to remind residents that street sweepers cannot pick up large piles of leaves. Residents are never to rake or blow leaves from their property into the street. Cooperation is greatly appreciated in preparing for Hurricane Sandy."
