News item

Winter weather preparations

Saanich, BC –The District of Saanich is proactively preparing for the upcoming winter weather and encourages residents to be aware of weather-related issues that could arise in the coming months.

Snow and ice removal

When the snow starts to fall, Saanich crews clear roads on a prioritized schedule and aim to clear priority routes within 24 hours. Saanich crews clear snow from municipal facility entrances and parking lots as well as in front of municipal buildings. When cold weather is in the forecast, crews try to control ice by pre-treating roadways with road salt or an anti-icing brine. The brine applied to roads can be effective for up to three days in ideal weather conditions.

Saanich crews ensure priority routes are treated first:

• Emergency access routes
• Major roads
• Priority bus routes
• Steep residential hills
• Priority sidewalks and bridges

Don’t forget that property owners are responsible for clearing snow from sidewalks in front of their properties and are encouraged to assist neighbours when possible.

Winter driving preparedness

• Do not drive unless it’s essential.
• Ensure that your vehicle is equipped with proper tires for the weather conditions.
• Keep an emergency safety kit in your vehicle in case you get stuck.
• Provide lots of space between yourself and other motorists.
• Do not follow Saanich plow trucks too closely.
• Reduce driving speeds as black ice is very difficult to see.

Visit saanich.ca for more information on winter road maintenance and snow and ice:

• Winter Road Maintenance
• Snow and Ice
• Tips for residents
• Snow and Ice FAQ's

Closures due to inclement weather

Saanich recreation centres and other municipal facilities and parks may close in the event of snow or other inclement weather. In the case of a recreation centre closure, updates will be provided via social media and the Saanich website. We further advise checking with your local recreation centre before heading out:

• Saanich Commonwealth Place 250-475-7600
• G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre 250-475-5400
• Gordon Head Recreation Centre 250-475-7100
• Cedar Hill Recreation Centre 250-475-7121

Closure notifications and additional information will be posted on the Saanich website and social media accounts (Facebook and Twitter) and shared with local media.

Need more information?

For updates and information, follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Residents can report issues on Saanich’s website.

 

Media contact:
Megan Catalano
Communications Manager
250-475-7639
megan.catalano@saanich.ca