Fairfax City Urges Residents To Make Room for Snowplows

With a big snowstorm coming, Fairfax City officials are reminding residents to keep their vehicles off the strerts to give snowplows room to maneuver.

City residents with off-road parking, like driveways or parking lots, should try to keep their vehicles off their residential streets during and immediately after a snowfall while crews make multiple passes through neighborhoods. This is helpful even after snow begins to fall, according to the city government.

This will allow snowplows to more effectively clear streets — and often reduces the amount of snow that accumulates (and needs to be shoveled) from the driveway after the storm passes.

Here’s a few more snow tips:

• When shoveling snow from walkways and driveways, pile snow to the left of the driveway (while facing the residence) so plows will not push snow back onto the driveway as they clear the roads.
• Clear snow and ice from sidewalks and walkways, so pedestrians (especially students) can pass safely.
• Don’t forget fire hydrants: Make sure the ones near you are uncovered and accessible in case of emergency.
• When shoveling driveways, sidewalks and on-street vehicles, consider waiting until plows have finished widening your street. This will help prevent vehicles being buried (again) in snow and reduce the possibility of snow plow “spills” onto driveway aprons or walkways.
• Please clear snow and ice promptly from sidewalks and walkways, and use ice “busters” like salt and sand to keep pedestrian areas safe for foot traffic. Safe access to school and bus stops are essential for public safety.
• Be a good neighbor and help others around you who are unable to clear the snow from their sidewalks. (Also, be sure to check on them and give them a hand with other issues if you are able.)
• Once the area has been cleared of snow, please check regularly for slick areas on walkways caused by subsequent melting and re-freezing, or ice and snow falling from vehicles or nearby vegetation.

Image via Shutterstock.