Yeah, those covers are no joke. I tried to lift one when we first moved in—thought I’d just pop it open and see what was going on. Nope. Nearly dropped it on my foot. I get wanting to help, but honestly, I’m not risking a trip to urgent care over a puddle. I do wish people would stop treating the storm drain like a magic trash can, though. It’s wild what ends up in there. I’m all for helping out, but I draw the line at heavy lifting and mystery sludge.
Honestly, I’ve seen some wild stuff down those drains—shopping carts, random shoes, you name it. I get wanting to help, but those covers are like mini manhole weights. Not worth a sprained back or worse. Sometimes I wonder if people think the drains just teleport their junk away...
If my street flooded, I'd be tempted to try clearing the drain, but honestly, those covers are no joke. I tried to wiggle one once—didn’t budge, just made my hands filthy. Here’s what I do now: 1) Check if leaves or trash are blocking the top. If it’s easy, I’ll move them with a rake. 2) If it looks like a shopping cart situation (which, why is that so common?), I just call the city. Not risking a hernia or a run-in with whatever’s down there. I get being helpful, but there’s a line.
Had a similar situation last year after a big storm—water was creeping up the driveway. I tried to clear the drain with a broom, but the grate was wedged tight and honestly, I wasn’t about to throw my back out. Ended up calling the city’s non-emergency line. They sent someone out within a few hours. I get wanting to help, but those covers are heavy for a reason. Not worth the risk, especially if you’re responsible for a property.
- I get the urge to just grab a shovel or something and go at it, but honestly, those grates are no joke.
- City’s supposed to maintain them anyway. If you wrench your back or worse, you’re on the hook for medical bills and maybe even property damage if you mess something up.
- I’ve seen neighbors try to pry them open with crowbars—never ends well. One guy bent his tool and barely budged the thing.
- If water’s creeping up, best bet is to clear off leaves and debris on top (if you can do it safely), but don’t try lifting the cover itself.
- Calling the city is the right move. They’ve got the gear and insurance if something goes sideways.
- Only thing I’d add: if this keeps happening, maybe push for better maintenance in your area. Sometimes they only come out when people complain.
- Not worth risking your back or a lawsuit just to save a few hours of waiting.
