While Victoria is usually the envy of Canada for its mild climate during winter months, snow could be coming sometime today.
In anticipation of the white stuff, the City of Victoria is reminding residents and business owners of their responsibilities in keeping its 450 kilometres of sidewalks freshly shovelled.Victoria's anti-icing truck has already been out applying a layer of brine (salt and water) on hills, bridges and major roadways.
But when a big snow dump hits, the city's limited snow removers are first sent to downtown transit stops, wheelchair ramps and sidewalks in front of city-owned property.Under city bylaws, residents and businesses must clear the sidewalks in front of their property of snow by 10 a.m. each day. Fines of $125 can be issued for failure to comply.
Snow clearing tools should include shovels, sand and environmentally sensitive ice melt products on sidewalks and driveways. (Don't use rock salt, as it's harmful to concrete sidewalks, pets’ paws and the environment).
Learn more about snow removal at victoria.ca/snowclearing.For residents, it's also best to keep an emergency kit with a working flashlight, radio, new batteries, and candles and matches, and to have plenty of food, essential medicine and extra blankets for up to 72 hours in case of a power outage. See more at prepareVictoria.ca.