Christmas

Posts Tagged ‘safety challenges’

During the holidays, people are panicking trying to get from one place to another quickly. In some places, variety of winter storms and weather extremes also create challenges. Holiday safety tips are necessary to remind people to be careful and equip them with knowledge of what to do when facing safety challenges.

In the winter (for areas with heavy snow), Public Works is prepared for the ritual of removing snow and ice from city streets. Some counties are on top of their game and all their personnel have received refresher training on equipment and procedures. Procedures and practices for plowing and salting have been reviewed and updated for the holiday safety tips. For prepared counties, their barn is stocked with tons of salt ready for the winter.

What are holiday safety tips when winter storm is forecast?

When a winter storm is forecast, Public Works staff develops an operation plan considering:

• time of day
• type of weather
• temperature
• wind
• length of storm, etc

Crews are generally scheduled to work in 12 hours shifts to clear streets.

What are the work priorities?

The work priorities vary depending on the city, county, and state. Generally the work priorities are, for example:

• maintain bare pavement on arterial streets
• maintain bare pavement on collector streets
• maintain public building sidewalks
• plow or salt one lane on residential streets
• maintain sidewalks and parking lots in the parks

Does the city remove ice or snow on private property?

Generally the city does not remove ice or snow on private properties. The owner of the property is responsible for removing his or her own property's ice or snow. If the snow falls or ice accumulates upon sidewalks in the nighttime, removal of it must be within 24 hours after sunrise.

Where can I put snow removed from my property?

Snow removed from a private property cannot be placed in the street or on the sidewalk. If you hire someone to clear your driveway and sidewalks, you must ensure that they follow the City ordinance requirement, whatever it is. As the property owner, you are responsible for the conduct of anyone hired by you (company or individuals).