Use Caution in Winter Conditions

With the first appreciable snowfall of the season occurring overnight, the city of Boulder would like to remind residents to use extra caution when driving in inclement weather and to shovel sidewalks before noon the day following a snow storm.

To make this a safer winter for you and your family:

• Don’t try to pass a snow plow. Snow plows are wider than one traffic lane. Avoid getting squeezed on the road (and avoid limited visibility caused by flying snow and ice) by not passing snow plows.

• Stay at least three to four car lengths behind spreader trucks to avoid windshield damage and to allow for adequate stopping distance. Spreader trucks have spinners that distribute traction materials across two lanes of traffic. The trucks weigh up to 54,000 pounds when loaded and move slowly.

• Use alternative transportation during snow storms to help reduce the number of vehicles on the roadways. This gives snow plows and spreader trucks more room in which to operate.

• When driving, allow more stopping distance between cars. It takes three to 12 times more distance to stop on icy or snowy roads. Avoid making last-minute decisions while driving.

• Shovel your sidewalks. A city ordinance requires sidewalks to be shoveled by noon the day after a snowstorm. The ICEBUSTERS program matches neighbors with elderly and disabled residents who cannot shovel their own driveways and sidewalks. Volunteers are needed. For more information or to be a volunteer, call Housing and Human Services at 303-441-3157.

• Cycle safely. Watch for ice and gravel, and wear a bike helmet.

To report specific trouble spots on Boulder roads, please call 303-413-7109 during the storm or 303-413-7162 after the storm.

For more information on the city’s snow removal, winter driving tips, or the ICEBUSTERS program, go online to www.bouldercolorado.gov and choose “Winter Tips” in the drop-down menu at the bottom of the page. For more information city snow removal efforts, contact Felix Gallo at 303-413-7180.