Storm drains in urban and suburban areas are a primary source of water pollution.  The drainage systems run directly to streams and rivers, without any intervening processing.  

Fortunately, there are some easy things homeowners can do to keep waste and pollutants out of storm drains:

• Never pour used motor oil or antifreeze into a storm drain.
  
• Check you car regularly, and have oil or coolant leaks repaired promptly.
  
• Never hose down spills and leaks.  Use kitty litter to clean up spilled liquids.  When the liquid is absorbed, sweep up the litter and place it in a garbage can. 
  
• Use biodegradable soaps when washing your vehicle.  Better yet, take the car to a carwash where water is recycled. 
  
• Remember that fertilizers and garden chemicals will eventually end up in storm drains.  Avoiding watering heavily immediately after applying fertilizer. Try to use the least toxic pesticides and herbicides possible. 
  
• Dispose of old paint, cleaners, pesticides and other toxic materials by taking them to a hazardous waste site.
  
• Never discard leftover lawn and garden products by pouring them down a storm drain. 
  
• Be careful with paint, especially oil-based varieties. Never rinse brushes or cans where the runoff water can go down a storm drain.
  
• Sweep sidewalks and patios, rather than hosing them off.
  
• Pick up animal waste and discard in a garbage can. 
  
• Never drain chlorinated pool water directly into a storm drain. 
  
• Participate in a program to stencil warning on storm drains in your neighborhood.
  
• Remember that water quality is everybody's business!