Winter Storm Watch: Use Care on Icy Roads
Shoreline Plows and Sanding Equipment Are on the Job
With winter heralding its arrival with a big show of weather, Shoreline offers tips for staying safe and preparing for further winter storms. Be sure to check the National Weather Service (NWS) website for weather forecasts and updates.
Road Closures
· 3rd Avenue NW at NW 205th Street
Snow Removal
One of the concerns for Shoreline, like most of the Puget Sound area, is that there is still ice on many side streets that is now being covered by snow. This is because the snow froze during the previous storm before plows could clear it. Snow plows’ rubber blades do not remove ice.
“The important thing to understand is that this weather is not a normal snow storm. Last weekend we were hit with a light snow followed by a chill snap that immediately froze the melting snow, making it impossible to remove the ice with the plows. The rubber blades simply bounce on the roadway when ice hardens. We haven’t experienced weather like this since 1990," explains Public Works Maintenance Supervisor Brian Breeden.
“All available sanding equipment is out running the routes. We have gone through 135 tons of sand throughout the City since last Saturday night and expect to go through an even larger amount by week’s end,” Breeden continues.
While it’s snowing, Shoreline crews concentrate on getting and keeping primary routes (like Aurora) plowed. Once the snow stops and the primary routes are clear, crews move to the secondary routes and then neighborhood roads. Following the plows are the sanders to provide traction on the ice. Snow plows’ rubber blades do not remove ice. For specifics, visit Shoreline's Snow Removal page.
Be Prepared
The City of Shoreline encourages residents and businesses to prepare for continued cold weather. Information to help you plan and prepare for all types of emergencies is available on the Emergency Management page. Also check the Regional Public Information Network (RPIN) for emergency reports and information from around the Puget Sound area.
Important reminders:
· Protect pets from cold and wind chill
· Protect against frozen pipes and radiators
· Make sure your emergency supply kit is within reach and fully stocked. Be sure to store three gallons of water per day per person.
· Test your battery-operated radio and flashlights; buy back-up batteries.
· If you have an electric garage door opener, locate and know how to use the manual override.
· Never use gas ovens, gas ranges, barbecues, and most portable or propane heaters for indoor heating. These units use oxygen and create carbon monoxide that can cause suffocation.
· Review the Power Outage Safety Guide before the power goes out.
· Check on neighbors who may need help being prepared for a storm, such as the elderly or people with special needs. Be sure they have emergency supplies.
· Stock your emergency car kit, especially with a battery-operated radio, water, blankets, and non-perishable foods.
At the Seattle Pacific University campus 12/18/2008. A group of friends and family who were snowed in spent the day walking around campus and playing in the snow.
Spending the day with good friends and family beats trying to drive in the snow and getting stuck or stranded somewhere. Ces la vie!
Merry Christmas, everyone and be safe out there!!
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