She pointed to a small, rusted nub on the side of the frame—a hexagon barely visible under grime. “Anti-theft bolt. Keeps people from taking the grates for scrap metal. Most towns use them.”
A mechanical device that uses a jack system to pop heavy lids open with less physical strain. 3. Step-by-Step Guide to Opening Quick Tip: Accessing Manhole Covers how to open a storm drain
: This is the safest method. You insert a heavy-duty Manhole Grate Hook into one of the slats and lift using your legs, not your back, to prevent injury. She pointed to a small, rusted nub on
: Before opening, sweep debris away from the edges to prevent it from falling into the basin. Most towns use them
: Never try to lift a full-sized street grate by hand; they can weigh over 100 pounds and cause severe back or finger injuries.
Underground chambers can harbor dangerous levels of methane or other toxic gases. Never enter a storm drain without professional training and air-monitoring equipment.