November is here and that means it's time to get ready for winter

NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF NOTL
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As the winter season approaches, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is proactively gearing up to address weather conditions. Staff is focused on ensuring timely and efficient responses to maintain road safety and safeguard the community before, during, and after weather events.

To support winter safety, we encourage residents to take the following actions to stay safe during the winter months.

Snow Removal

"Be in the know when it comes to snow!" The Town's snow removal procedures are in place to support safe road and sidewalk conditions throughout the winter. Key tips for residents include:

• Keep Snow on Your Property: Avoid piling snow from your driveway or walkways onto the road. When shoveling, 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 Section 181 of the Highway Traffic Act.

Utilize the Town’s Online Plow Tracker

The Town will once again utilize its online Plow Tracker, an interactive digital map that keeps the community updated on winter road maintenance and response efforts. With real-time information about salting, sanding, and snow plowing operations, residents can stay informed about current road conditions throughout the season.

As snow begins to fall in Niagara-on-the-Lake, our uniquely named fleet of six snowplows and two sidewalk plows will be hard at work. 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!

Winter Parking

Residents are reminded that winter street parking restrictions are in effect. Vehicles left on public roadways during or after winter storms interfere with plow operations. In line with the Town’s Parking and Traffic By-Law 4308-09 and Repair and Storage Liens Act, By-Law Enforcement Officers may issue parking notices or tow vehicles that hinder snow removal.

Stormwater Pond Safety

As temperatures drop, ice may form on stormwater ponds and other natural bodies of water throughout Town. Please keep yourself, your children, and your pets away from these frozen areas. Although stormwater pond ice may look solid, it is unstable due to fluctuating water flows and freeze-thaw conditions, making it unsuitable for activities like walking, ice skating, or hockey. Safety signage will be installed around stormwater ponds, and we ask residents to adhere to these warnings.

Service Delivery Requests

Residents are encouraged to report any hazardous road conditions through the Town’s Service Request Webform or by calling Town Hall at 905-468-3266, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can call 905-682-2704 after hours. Whether it’s a slippery area, a downed tree, or other concerns, our team is here to address your reports as promptly as possible.

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 answers to frequently asked questions about winter parking, snow removal processes, and severe weather events, please visit https://www.notl.com/town-services/roads-infrastructure/snow-procedures.

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