Courtesy of the City of Chino Hills

Chino Hills – In preparation for El Niño, the City of Chino Hills Public Works Department has been cleaning V-ditches along slopes and roadways, and has also been cleaning debris from storm drains, catch basins, and flood control channels. If you see any of these areas clogged with debris, report the location by calling Public Works at (909) 364-2800 or the after-hours on-call hotline at (909) 364-2860.

The City of Chino Hills and the Chino Valley Fire District encourage residents to take steps to protect their property before the rain begins. Homeowners should do their part by clearing debris from rain gutters, downspouts, and drains so water can flow and drain properly. Residents with yards that are prone to erosion during heavy rains should consider implementing erosion control mechanisms such as sandbags and the use of straw rolls or wattles. Residents should check roofs for leaks, damage, or displaced tiles, and pay close attention to areas where separation could occur, such as around the chimney.

The City of Chino Hills has delivered sand, and the Chino Valley Fire District has delivered sandbags to Fire Station No. 64, located at 16231 Canon Lane; and to Fire Station No. 62, located at 5551 Butterfield Ranch Road. Citizens with proof of residency will be issued 25 sandbags per household. Bring a shovel to fill the sandbags. For tips on filling and placing sandbags, visit http://www.chinovalleyfire.org/sandbags. For properties that require significant sandbagging, sandbags are available for purchase at local hardware stores.

For more information, please visit the City website at http://www.chinohills.org/ElNino to learn more about what you can do to prepare, how to stay safe during floods and heavy rains, and website links to other helpful resources.