Storm water pollution is a big problem that affects everyone. It might seem like the problem is too big for any one person to fix. But if everyone does what he or she can do, then we can all make a difference. Read below to discover all the simple ways you can help prevent storm water pollution, and be sure to tell your friends and family members how they can help!

1. Dispose of automotive fluids like motor oil and antifreeze properly. If you help your parents or big brothers and sisters work on their cars, make sure you never pour automotive fluids down a storm drain or dump them on the ground, where they get into the storm drain and the nearest creek, river or lake. Do not mix motor oil and antifreeze, and recycle these fluids by taking then to an approved collection site. Teach your family members about this important way to prevent storm water pollution.

2. Pick up pet waste-it's the law! Pet waste often contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can contaminate the water if they get into the storm drain system. Place your hand in the bag, pick up the waste, turn the bag inside-out, tie it, and throw in a nearby trash can. At home, you can scoop up pet waste and flush it down an indoor toilet, which is even better for the environment.

3. Build a compost pile. Never dump yard clippings in a storm drain. Instead, combine them with kitchen scraps, wood shavings, cardboard, and paper and make a compost pile in your yard. Compost piles help the soil absorb and keep nutrients and moisture and protect plants from diseases and pests. This way you can avoid using too much fertilizer and pesticide and help reduce storm water pollution.

4. Never use more fertilizer or pesticide than the amount indicated by the directions on the product label. Never use fertilizer or pesticide on a windy day or when you know it's going to rain. Using too much or the wrong product can be harmful to the environment. Rain runoff carries excess chemicals and pesticides into the nearest creek, lake or the Trinity River. Wind can blow excess fertilizer into the streets where it can get washed into storm drains.

5. Never wash your car in your driveway at home. If you do, harmful detergents can get into the storm drain and go to creeks, lakes and rivers. Take your car to a commercial carwash where the water goes through the wastewater system and is treated and cleaned.

6. Dispose of household chemicals properly. Don't throw away household chemicals like paint, bug sprays, and bathroom cleaners. Take them to an official collection site.

7. Mark storm drains in your neighborhood. Contact Storm Water Management to volunteer to help place storm drain markers in your neighborhood.

8. Report water polluters! Have your parents call 3-1-1 to report water polluters, pollution incidents, flooding and drainage problems.