Know in advance the evacuation route to the nearest exit. Always consider an alternate route in case the primary exit is blocked. The grates are part of a storm drain system that flows into a catch basin, usually a local stream or pond. Unfortunately, other materials also find their way into the system. Runoff carries with it anything that will float, dissolve or be moved along.
Problems can arise when hazardous products such as gasoline, oil and soap are carried in the water.
Such items can upset the balance of life in our waterways. On campus we are particularly cognizant of areas such as Long Pond and Burton's Pond and the impact pollution would have on the fish and waterfowl that are a part of these ecosystems. Prevention and early intervention are the best defense against this type of pollution. Never pour hazardous liquids down the storm drain. If you spill hazardous materials onto a roadway or parking lot, or if you see such a spill, try to divert the flow away from the storm drains.