Winter weather and snow is in the forecast for Saanich this weekend. In-preparation, the District is taking steps to ensure roads remain clear and the chances for service disruptions are minimized.

Snow and ice management

We are aniticipating colder temperatures over the next few days. District staff are pre-treating roadways with an anti-icing brine, which is effective for up to three days in suitable weather. Our dedicated crews will work diligently to clear roads based on a prioritized schedule, aiming to ensure all priority routes are accessible within 24 hours.

Snow and ice priority response treatment is given to:

• Major roads (high-volume routes and transit connectors including McKenzie, Quadra, Shelbourne and Cedar Hill)
• Priority bus routes
• Designated steep residential hills
• Key sidewalks on bridges and pedestrian overpasses/underpasses
• Supporting Police, Fire and Ambulance emergency access

Residents are reminded that maintaining clear sidewalks adjacent to their properties is their responsibility, and we're grateful for your assistance in helping neighbours when possible.

Updated information is available on our web pages:

• Winter Road Maintenance
• Parks Snow and Ice Management

During periods of freezing temperature, it is important to turn off all outside taps from the shut off inside your house. Once off, you should disconnect any garden hoses and open the tap to drain off the internal water.

If you are unable to turn off from inside your house, a styrofoam insulating cover can be installed. These covers are not expensive and can be bought at your local hardware store. Plumbing in crawl spaces and un-heated garages are most susceptible to freeze. If your pipes have frozen use a hairdryer to thaw or call a plumber. Never use open flame torches.

Facility operations during inclement weather

In the event of snow or severe weather, please be aware that Saanich recreation centres and municipal facilities may experience closures or program cancellations. If schools in School District 61 close, all programs scheduled before 3:00 p.m. at Saanich recreation centres will be canceled; however, the centres might remain open. Should BC Transit services halt, recreation centres will close.

We recommend confirming with your local centre before visiting:

• Commonwealth Place: 250-475-7600
• G.R. Pearkes: 250-475-5400
• Gordon Head: 250-475-7100
• Cedar Hill: 250-475-7121

For real-time updates, visit the Saanich website, and social media platforms, or check local media.

For more tips on safeguard your home and to report outages, please contact BC Hydro or visit their website.

Steps to keep your family safe and comfortable

Winter weather can bring about unforeseen challenges. Taking steps to prepare yourself and your family is the best way to keep everyone safe. 

• Identify a winter weather buddy: if you, or someone you know, lives alone or has limited mobility, identify a winter weather buddy to check in when severe weather hits. Your buddy can be someone who is able to help prepare your home for adverse weather, pick up groceries and supplies if you are unable to leave your home or simply check in to make sure you are taken care of. 
• Prepare for power outages: consider how you will keep warm if the power is out. Include a battery-operated radio and a flashlight with extra batteries in your emergency kit.
• Equip your car: ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter with proper maintenance. Keep you gas tank at least half full or your electric vehicle half charged at all times. Create a vehicle emergency kit with items such as a windshield scraper and shovel, mittens an dhats, antifreeze and windshield washer fluid.

Flood prevention and response

Our crews are actively monitoring drainage systems to prevent flooding. Should you experience flooding on streets or sidewalks, call 250-475-5599.

To minimize flood risks at home:

• Remove leaves and debris to ensure proper drainage
• Seal potential water entry points and regularly check plumbing
• Keep gutters, downspouts, and storm drains free of obstruction

Garbage and organics collection

Weather permitting, garbage and organics collection will continue as usual. If conditions prevent collection, please keep your carts accessible yet clear of snow lanes, and we will resume service as conditions allow. For the latest updates, check Saanich.ca/greenergarbage.

Stay informed

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