There is a 5,000 miles storm drain network that connects local bodies of water to the ocean. Rainwater flushes into gutters and into the storm drain system. When rainwater moves over land, it picks up litter, car fluids, grease - anything we leave on the ground - and takes it to the oceans.

This form of pollution causes health risks, beach closures, damage to marine life, neighborhood flooding and lowering of property values.

Project Pollution Prevention is a County-wide program to control and reduce pollutants entering the storm drain system from residents and businesses. The program will help to educate the public about what they can do to prevent pollution and keep local waterways clean.

Here's a few tips for business to prevent storm drain pollution:

" Never dispose of car fluids in the street or gutter. Recycle or dispose of them properly at a repair shop or gas station or through drop-off programs. Call Public Works for information at 781-6900 or click here for more information.

" Dispose of grease/oil in proper containers for collection. Local collectors include:
Baker Commodities (800) 427-0696
Darling International (800) 882-3600
West Coast Recycling (323) 261-4176

" Do not hose parking lots or sidewalks - dry mop or sweep

" If a spill occurs, use dry clean up like kitty litter, sawdust or cornmeal to clean up - do not hose or rinse with water.

" Clean up litter before it reaches the storm drains

" Following these tips leads to a cleaner business area, safer employees and customers and a cleaner local environment.

For addition information, contact Project Pollution Prevention at 626-458-3543 or click here to go to the Stormwater Pollution Prevent website.