Saanich prepares for freezing temperatures and winter weather

January 12, 2024

Information bulletin
For immediate release

Saanich, BC – While Saanich residents generally enjoy a mild climate, extreme weather is in the forecast and we are ready to face the cold and keep our streets safe.

Here’s how we’re preparing:

Crews have already been pre-treating roadways and municipal facility access points with de-icing, pet-friendly brine that can last up to three days. This will continue throughout the cold weather.

If it snows, when will our roads be clear?

With more than 600 km of roads in Saanich, our Public Works trucks and crews can’t be everywhere at once.

We are committed to clearing designated priority routes within 24 hours and continuing on a pre-determined clearing schedule for efficient service.

Priority routes in Saanich include:

  • Emergency access routes (used by Police, Fire and Ambulance)
  • Major roads (high volume roads and connectors to our transportation system)
  • Priority bus routes
  • Pre-identified steep residential hills
  • Priority sidewalks on bridges and pedestrian overpasses/underpasses 

If it snows, who’s clearing my sidewalk?

One of the responsibilities of home ownership is clearing snow from all municipal sidewalks adjacent to your property. Look out for neighbours and lend a helping hand when possible!

What should I do with my uncollected garbage and organics?

If we’re not able to collect garbage and organics on your scheduled day because of winter weather, please leave your carts out and place them off the road so snow clearing plows can get by. We will continue collection when conditions improve.

Up to date information is available at saanich.ca/greenergarbage.

What possible hazards should I keep in mind?

Winter weather, storms and snow sometimes cause unexpected hazards. We have more information available for the following:

What about closures?

Saanich recreation centres, municipal facilities and parks may close due to weather. Know before you go! Closure notifications and additional information will be posted to the following spaces:

For Municipal Hall updates:

For Recreation Centre updates:

Learn more about keeping safe on the winter roads: 

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Media Contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca