Fairfax City Has Snow Removal Tips

FAIRFAX, VA — OK, so the city more or less dodged the brunt of the so-called bomb cyclone snowstorm that ravaged its way through Hampton Roads and continues to do so along the northern part of the East Coast. But this latest layer of snow isn't really going anywhere for the next several days because of the continued cold, so Fairfax has some tips:

• Consider clearing snow and ice promptly from sidewalks and walkways, and using ice “busters” like salt and sand to keep pedestrian areas safe for foot traffic. Even though the city does not have a law requiring property owners to remove snow and ice from sidewalks, such practices are encouraged: safe access to school and bus stops are essential for public safety.
• Shovel snow safely and smartly — click here for a few tips.
• Remember your local hydrant and remove snow and debris for easy access by public safety officials.
• Remove snow from vehicles before getting on the road. Snow and ice flying off a traveling vehicle is a hazard.
• Stay informed about city services, road conditions and public safety information.

Meanwhile, lows are expected to drop into single digits Friday and Saturday night, with highs in the low 20s. That's not even taking into consideration the wind chill, with 20 mph gusts likely. Here are some tips from the city's Emergency Management Office and Ready.gov on dealing with extreme cold:

• Bring pets inside.
• Minimize outdoor activities for the whole family, including pets.
• Dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing instead of a single heavy layer. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
• Wear a hat, mittens or gloves, and sturdy waterproof boots to protect your extremities.
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
• Know the warning signs of frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and hypothermia, and know when to seek medical attention.
• Take recommended safety precautions when using space heaters, a fireplace, or a woodstove to heat your home. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
• Make sure emergency generators or secondary heating systems are well-ventilated.
• Know how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).
• If water pipes or water meter freezes, never thaw it with an open flame, torch, hair dryer or electrical equipment. Always be careful of the potential for electric shock in and around standing water. Contact Fairfax Water for information and assistance: 703-698-5800 (after hours: 703-698-5613).
• Keep extra blankets on hand, and keep extra water in the house (at least one gallon per person per day) in case utilities are compromised.
• Keep electronics (telephones, particularly) charged in case of a power outage.
• Make sure household carbon monoxide detectors are working.
• Stay informed: sign up for Fairfax City Alert, the city's electronic message alert system, and pay attention to reliable news sources for weather information and additional emergency information.

Click here for the city's Winter Weather Safety Checklist.

Image via Patch