Snow Cleaning Services Halted for Week of January 8th

The City of Yellowknife has announced that snow removal services will be halted for the week of January 8^th. Due to the latest cold snap we have been experiencing in the Territory, here are some tips for winter driving.

Slow down – Fog, black ice, slush or snow-covered roads can make driving dangerous. Drive slowly and leave plenty of distance between vehicles.

Get winter tires – Traction is the key to good movement, turning and stopping on wet, slushy or icy surfaces. Check tires and tire pressure at least once a month when tires are cold and remember that tire air pressure decreases in colder weather. Winter tires provide additional traction in colder weather.

Top-up windshield fluid – Fill up on winter washer fluid and replace wiper blades that streak. Make sure there is enough windshield washer fluid in the reservoir and that it is rated in the -40C temperature range. Carry an extra jug in the vehicle.

Keep the gas tank topped up – When driving in bad weather, think caution, plan ahead and make sure you have enough fuel. Keep the fuel tank at least half full.

See and be seen – clear all snow from the hood, roof, windows and lights. Clear all windows of fog or ice. If visibility becomes poor, find a place to safely pull off the road as soon as possible.

Get an emergency car kit – Have the appropriate safety and emergency winter equipment always stored in your car. The basic emergency kit for cars should include the following items:

Food – that won’t spoil, such as energy bars

Water – in plastic bottles so they won’t break if frozen (change every six months)

Blanket

Extra clothing and shoes

First aid kit – with seatbelt cutter

Small shovel, scraper and snowbrush

Candle in a deep can and matches

Crank flashlight

Whistle – in case you need to attract attention

Roadmaps

Copy of your emergency plan

A few other items that can be useful; to have on hand include sand, slat, and cat litter, antifreeze, tow rope, jumper cables, and warning lights or road flares.

Snow removal will resume the week of January 15, when temperatures are expected to be warmer.