Information bulletin
For immediate release 

 

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich is proactively preparing for the upcoming winter season and encourages residents to be aware of weather-related issues that could arise.

Snow and ice removal

Saanich crews clear roads on a prioritized schedule and aim to clear priority routes within 24 hours of a snowfall. Saanich crews clear snow from municipal facility entrances and parking lots as well as sidewalks on municipal properties. Property owners are responsible for clearing snow from sidewalks in front of their properties and are encouraged to help neighbours with limited mobility remove snow.

When cold weather is in the forecast, Saanich controls ice by pre-treating roadways with an anti-icing brine. The brine applied to roads can be effective for up to three days in ideal weather conditions.

Closures due to inclement weather

Saanich recreation centres and other municipal facilities and parks may close in the event of snow or other inclement weather. If schools in School District 61 are closed, then all registered programs and lessons taking place before 3 p.m. at Saanich recreation centres will be cancelled, but centres may remain open. If BC Transit buses are not running, Saanich recreation centres will be closed.

Closure notifications will be posted on the Saanich website and Saanich social media accounts and shared via local radio stations.

Prevent and report flooding

Saanich crews are taking steps to prevent flooding by inspecting critical drainage infrastructure. In the event of a flood on streets and sidewalks, call 250-475-5597 Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or 250-475-6190 after hours.

Sandbags are available at our public works yard at 1040 McKenzie Avenue if residents need to divert overland rain water flow during a flood. Residents are also encouraged to avoid fast-moving water in a storm situation.

Tips to prevent flooding in your home:

• Remove leaves and other debris that prevent proper drainage
• Seal cracks or openings in walls, floors, windows and foundations and all window wells
• Ensure that your plumbing and drainage systems are in good working condition

Watch for trees and branches during windstorms

Look for downed power lines and keep a safe distance. Trees or branches on hydro lines should to be reported to BC Hydro at 1-800-224-9376.

For municipal parks, boulevards or other public lands and tree issues, please contact Saanich Parks at 250-475-5522 or parksadmin@saanich.ca. After-hours calls should be directed to 250-475-6190.

Power outages

Most power outages last only minutes, but in severe weather events, the power can be off for longer periods of time. Think ahead by ensuring you have a flashlight, blankets and a fully-charged cell phone on-hand in the event of a power outage. Never use a camp stove, barbecue, or propane or kerosene heater indoors. Visit Saanich's website for tips on what to include in your emergency kit.

For more information on preparing your home and business, to report an outage and for outage maps and restoration times, contact BC Hydro at 1-800-224-9376 or visit the BC Hydro website.

Need more information?

For updates and information, follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Residents can report issues on Saanich's website.

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Media Contact:
Megan Catalano, Communications Manager
250-475-5494 ext. 3444
megan.catalano@saanich.ca