DOWNEY - The rainy season has begun, bringing with it an increase in flooding and other water-related problems.Extended periods of heavy rain can overwhelm storm drains and pumps, resulting in areas of standing water that sometimes finds its way into houses. We advise residents to prepare ahead of time if they anticipate potential flooding in the neighborhood. Downey residents who experience these types of problems can get sandbags at a number of places in the city. Sandbags may be purchased ahead of time at the following locations: All American Home Center, 7201 Firestone Blvd. (50-lb. bags of sand) Resource Building Materials, 8020 Phlox St., east of Paramount Blvd. (erosion control bags - empty or with sand) The Home Depot, 7121 Firestone Blvd. (bags and sand). In an emergency, sandbags may be available for Downey residents (no businesses) during severe stormy conditions only. See guidelines below: •Available at the public works maintenance yard, 12324 Bellflower Blvd. (behind Independence Park) between 6:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. •Must show proof of residency •10 bags maximum per household per rainy season •Residents must load them into their cars Sandbags are also available at Downey fire stations between 7:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. while supplies last: •Station 1 - 12222 Paramount Blvd. •Station 2 - 9556 Imperial Hwy. •Station 3 - 9900 Paramount Blvd. •Station 4 - 9349 Florence Ave. Be prepared: winter months can bring heavy rain that may require extra protection for property. For extreme emergencies, you may contact the Downey fire stations or fire dispatch at (562) 861-9221.

********** Published: December 23, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 36