Winter Operations

Snow Removal Tips

• It is illegal to push snow from your private property onto public streets or sidewalks. Pursuant to Part X (181) of the Highway Traffic Act “No person shall deposit snow or ice on the roadway without permission in writing from the Ministry or road authority…”
• Shovel snow onto your property, away from the road and sidewalk.
• When piling snow on your property, take care not to block sightlines from driveways.
• If you have a fire hydrant in front of your house, you can assist the District of Muskoka by clearing the snow from around the fire hydrant
• Please do not push large volumes of snow into ditches. It can turn into ice and block nearby culverts.
• Clear storm drains of leaves and snow to prevent flooding
• Please do not park on public roads where it could obstruct snow removal or other winter maintenance efforts.
• Please do not park vehicles on driveways in a way where they block any part of the sidewalk. Please ensure a clear passage for the sidewalk plow.
• Consider assisting your elderly or disabled neighbour(s) by clearing snow for them.
• You, as the property owner, are responsible for clearing windrows from the end of your driveway.
• Teach children not to play in snow banks at edge of road, snow piles in cul-de-sacs or any other area where snow removal takes place.
• Keep your 911 sign clear of snow buildup.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

• Pedestrians should wear reflective clothing at night or during poor visibility to ensure they are highly visible to all traffic.
• Wearing earphones or winter headgear (i.e. hoodies, hats) can inhibit your hearing or peripheral vision. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings.
• it is unsafe and illegal to "jay-walk". Please cross at crosswalks or designated traffic signals.
• Be alert while walking. Refrain from using a cell phone while walking on streets and sidewalks. Make eye contact with approaching drivers before crossing the road.
• Always wear proper footwear for icy conditions. Rubber soles and low heels will help to ensure safety when walking on winter roads and sidewalks.

Winter Driving Tips

• Consider getting winter tires if you don’t already have them. Winter tires provide better traction, handling and braking and can shorten your braking distance by 25%. All-season tires are not as effective and can lose their grip when the temperature is below 7°C. Drivers with winter tires may be eligible for a discount on car insurance through the winter months.
• Drive according to road conditions. Allow more distance between cars, slow down, and give yourself more travel time. Give yourself extra time and space to stop in bad weather. Do not rely on the estimated time of arrival according to your GPS. Speed limits are set for ideal conditions.
• Clear snow and ice from your vehicle. Make sure you clean all windows, mirrors, lights and the roof. Wait for any foggy windows to clear up to improve visibility. Good visibility keeps yourself and others safe.
• Check road and weather conditions frequently. Choose the route you'll take ahead of time and check the weather forecast to make sure you know what to expect before you hit the road.
• Create a 'survival’ kit. Your survival kit should include: gloves, booster cables, a small shovel, windshield wiper fluid, a first aid kit, a torch, a snow brush, candles, a safety vest, water bottles and non-perishable energy foods. Keep the kit in the trunk of your car.
• Watch for pedestrians. Look twice for pedestrians crossing the road.
• Stay back from snow clearing equipment by approximately 45 metres (147 feet). If you find yourself behind a snow plow, maintain a safe distance. Snow plow drivers do not always have the best visibility and can create clouds of snow that can reduce your visibility.
• Pay attention to the road. Do not allow yourself to be distracted when driving.
• Prevent hydroplaning. Scan ahead for large puddles and slow down.