Storm Drain Drowning Dangers Addressed

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — The drowning of an Oklahoma firefighter and a Texas teenager highlight the dangers posed by storm drains that protect neighborhoods during flash flooding but can suck in unsuspecting people.

Several deaths and near-drownings occur every year because of how drainage systems were designed in many densely populated areas decades ago. While the drains funnel water away from homes, businesses and schools, they often feature wide openings at the bottom of open culverts that feed into long pipes. During floods, they can create a powerful and unseen hazard.

Some cities fear that installing grates over the drain openings would cause clogging that would flood neighborhoods. But safety experts say the grates could be kept clear with regular maintenance. They are also calling for fencing and other safety features.