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City of West Kelowna asks for help clearing snow

A snowfall of 10 to 15 centimetres is forecasted overnight
15237340_web1_181228-KCN-snow-plow
File photo (AP Photo/Orlin Wagner)

Snow flurries are forecasted to come our way overnight and the city is asking residents to help clear the way and keep the roadways safe.

Environment Canada is forecasting a snowfall of 10 to 15 centimetres which means city snow plows will be out in force to keep roadways clear. During sustained snowfall, plows must work to keep priority one roads clear, which may mean a delay in clearing priority two or three roads. It may take up to 48 hours after a snowfall ends for all roads to be plowed at least once.

Residents are reminded not to park on street during a snowfall to provide ample room for the plow to clear both travel lanes of the roadway. Vehicles parked on street that impede snow clearing may be fined $50.

RELATED: Heavy snowfall expected for Coquihalla, Okanagan valley

Here are more tips to help clear the way:

  • Don’t shovel snow from driveways and sidewalks back onto the street. This can impact the plow driver’s work and occasionally results in unsafe conditions. Pile snow on your property and keep storm drains clear as much as possible when doing so.
  • Windrows left by passing plows are inevitable. Plows direct snow to the right, so when shoveling, pile snow to the left (when facing your property) of the driveway and plows will drag less snow across your access.
  • Remove snow and ice from sidewalks and walkways bordering your property. The city only removes snow and ice from sidewalks that are adjacent to civic buildings and parks and pedestrian accesses.
  • Please clear snow from around fire hydrants adjacent to your property.

It’s a challenge for some residents to keep their driveways and sidewalks clear of snow and ice. The city’s Snow Star Program encourages residents to lend a helping hand to those who find snow clearing difficult. If you know someone who regularly helps clear the way, consider nominating your Snow Star. Visit www.westkelownacity.ca/snowstar to find out how to enter their name in a draw for a chance to win a great prize at the end of the snow season.

To find out more about winter road maintenance, including the City’s snow removal priority list, visit www.westkelownacity.ca/roads. If your road has not received attention within 48 hours of the last snowfall, please email roads@westkelownacity.ca to request service. For snow and ice control on Highway 97, 97C and Westside Road call Argo Road Maintenance. If you live in a strata complex, check with your board or management company on who your contractor is.

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