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Rain Preparation Tips: Sandbags, Runaway Trash Cans, and More


With rain in the forecast, it’s essential Glendale residents be prepared to protect their properties from damage. Sandbags are an effective way of diverting water around a building and are relatively easy to deploy. Here are some handy tips!

  • Sand and soil are the preferred materials for sandbags. Gravel and rock are not ideal because they won’t hold back the water.

  • Stack sandbags tightly to limit potential gaps

  • Stagger the bags as you increase in height

  • If you’re using burlap sacks, be sure to fill the bag ONLY halfway and then fold the open end on itself.

Residents may pick up 10 free unfilled sandbags at all Fire Station locations and the Police Station. Sand will be available at various locations and we will update the information shortly.

Preventing Runaway Trash Cans

Don’t let your trash cans float away with the excess water from the rain!

Here are some easy tips to prevent your trash can from floating away:

1. Place your bin on top of the curb so that it’s not in the drainage area and it won’t get swept away.

2. Place your bin roughly three feet away from the curb into the street away from the storm drain.

3. If you only have a small amount of trash, recyclables or green waste, don’t put your cans out during a storm and keep them safe while keeping from becoming a part of the problem.

Although it's the resident’s responsibility to retrieve their respective bins, we will return it by its assigned number if we find it. If your bin runs away and you need additional information, call one of the number below:

City of Glendale Integrated Waste


Additional Ways to Prepare for Rain

1. Yard Clean-Up

Make a general inspection of your entire yard area for dead trees or dead limbs, yard debris, outdoor furniture, or other objects that could be blown by storm winds. It is important not to over-trim trees as improper pruning actually leaves trees more vulnerable. Read more about proper tree care here.

2. Drains and Gutters

Make sure all drains and gutters are cleared of debris and functioning properly before the storm season. Storm water runoff from impermeable surfaces (e.g., roofs, driveways, and patios) should be directed into a collection system to avoid soil saturation.

3. Retaining Walls


4. Slopes


5. Bare Ground


6. Storm Drains

Visually inspect nearby storm drains, before the storm season and after every rain; if the storm drains are obstructed, clear the material from the drain or notify the Public Works Department at 818-548-3950.

STAY INFORMED: Signup for the City’s Emergency Notification System today.
