Thursday, March 28, 2024

5 Things You Need to Know to Deal with the Icy Conditions

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With the first snowfall of the season, come reports of people slipping on ice as well as seniors being unable to leave their homes, for fear of sustaining potentially life-altering fractures. This is a good time to take care of each other by remembering the following:

1. Keep Sidewalks Clear
Residents and businesses in the City of Victoria are required to clear snow and ice from sidewalks in front of their property by 10 a.m. each day, under the Streets and Traffic Bylaw. Those who do not comply may face a fine of $125 per ticketed offence (per day) and a ticket can be issued up to six months after an offence has occurred.

2. Check in on Vulnerable Neighbours
See if elderly and disabled neighbours need any assistance getting groceries or running errands, and of course having their sidewalk cleared. Arrange with neighbours ahead of time, to clear each other’s sidewalks if they are away when it snows.

3. Do Not Shovel Snow Onto City Streets or Sidewalks
Shoveling snow into the street slows snow removal. It also makes getting in and out of vehicles treacherous, and is a danger to cyclists and pedestrians trying to navigate the city streets.

4. Navigating Icy Sidewalks
In the event that a property owner has not cleared the sidewalk, Island Health recommends some of the following:

  • Keep your centre of gravity over your feet and keep your hands out of your pockets to maintain balance
  • Walk slowly and pay attention to where you are going
  • Use extra caution when entering or exiting a vehicle
  • Walk where it’s crunchy if you can
  • Use a waist belt or backpack instead of carrying a purse – this will improve your balance

5. Use the Right Snow Clearing Tools
The city recommends Victoria businesses and households have shovels, sand, and environmentally sensitive ice melt products to remove snow and ice from sidewalks and driveways. Rock salt is harmful to concrete sidewalks, pets’ paws and the environment.

For more information visit City of Victoria’s: Prepare for Snow and Ice This Week

 

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Jitka Zhttp://www.itkasanimages.com
Meeting people from all walks of life and sharing their stories is my passion!

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