It may not look or feel like it, but these are the looming days of winter.

For those who superstitiously dare not speak its name, the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has gone and done it for you and officially broached the S-word.

“Be in the know when it comes to snow!” reads a Nov. 6 news release penned by communications consultant Marah Minor.

The public service announcement proactively lets the public know that winter parking restrictions and snow removal procedures are in effect.

The communication continues with safety tips for stormwater ponds and general cold weather suggestions. 

It also encourages the use of online services to report hazardous road conditions through the town’s service request web form.

“Staff is focused on ensuring timely and efficient responses to maintain road safety and safeguard the community before, during, and after weather events,” said the statement.

Snow removal

• Keep snow on your property: Avoid piling snow from your driveway or walkways onto the road. When shovelling, place snow on the right side of your driveway (when facing the street) to minimize the amount pushed back by plows.

• Clear fire hydrants: Keep hydrants visible and accessible, as quick access may be critical in emergencies.
• Garbage and recycling placement: Position garbage and recycling bins near, but not on, the road to allow for smooth plowing operations.
• Snow removal safety: Avoid pushing or blowing snow onto public roads, as this can endanger drivers and may incur a fine under the Highway Traffic Act.

Utilize the town’s online plow tracker

The online plow tracker is an interactive digital map that keeps the community updated on winter road maintenance and response efforts. It features real-time information about salting, sanding and snow plowing operations.

The town has even taken to naming its fleet of six snowplows and two sidewalk plows.

“Look out for Sled Zeppelin, Buzz Ice-Clear, Ctrl Salt Delete, Skip the Ditches, Catch my Drift, Darth Blader, Snow-be-gone Kenobi and Scoop Dogg as they help keep our streets and sidewalks clear this winter!”

Additional winter safety tips

• Help neighbours: Offer snow-clearing assistance to those who may need it.
• Allow plow time: Under severe weather conditions, please allow at least 24 hours after snow stops for Town plows to reach all streets. Regional plows are responsible for snow clearing for regionally owned roads.
• Stay informed: Follow the town on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for real-time weather and road maintenance updates.

For more information visit the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake website at notl.com.