Northumberland County is ready for winter
Northumberland County
Winter has come to Northumberland County, and they are offering reassurances that they are ready (along with some safe-driving tips)
Northumberland County has announced that this first blast of winter has found its Public Works team ready for the season's challenges.
This includes 30 dedicated staff members providing 24/7 coverage for safely maintaining 450 km. (900 lanes) of roadway.
Director of Public Works Denise Marshall said these staffers always have an eye on the weather, ready to respond quickly when snow or ice is expected. Conditions can change quickly and – as large as Northumberland County is – may produce different conditions across different areas.
The county advises residents always to drive cautiously in snowy or icy conditions, to remain patient, and always to keep a safe distance from snow-removal equipment.
Our team has been getting ready for winter by maintaining our equipment, installing snowplows on our trucks and stocking up on salt and sand,” Marshall said in the press release.
“We monitor weather reports throughout the day to stay ahead of storms. Our road supervisors and patrollers also work around the clock, using sensors to track road conditions, and then dispatch snowplows where they are needed most.”
In these conditions, it's important to drive carefully.
Always reduce your speed, leave extra space between vehicles, and adjust your driving to match road conditions.
If you must travel during a snowstorm or icy conditions, let a friend or family member know your travel plans and be sure to clear all ice and snow from your vehicle before setting out.
Patience is key. Give snowplows and other equipment plenty of room to do their work. Do not tailgate or try to pass these vehicles.
The county reminds rural residents to ensure that their mailboxes are correctly constructed and installed according to Canada Post guidelines, as snow thrown by the snowplow can damage improperly installed mailboxes.
Property owners should also be aware that, under the Highway Traffic Act, it is illegal to deposit show onto any portion of toe roadway. Residents should avoid snow ridges or piles that could freeze and create hazards for drivers.
For more information on the county's winter operations and helpful driving tips, visit Northumberland.ca/Snow
