The City of Colwood Public Works team is all geared up for winter ice and snow... and we need your help!

When the weather threatens to drop below zero, the Colwood public works team gets busy tuning up the snow and ice clearing equipment.

​It is important to work together as a community when winter weather hits, to keep streets and sidewalks clear and safe, and keep people, goods, and services moving.

Minimizing icy patches

When frost is in the forecast, Public Works applies a brine solution to keep roads clear of ice. The solution is about 23.3% salt, which is considered optimum for our west coast conditions. (For comparison, Winnipeg uses 100% salt).

Because the brine solution can last for up to 5 days on the road surface, it is often applied in advance of an icy night in the forecast. Getting the job done within working hours reduces the added cost of overtime work.

Snow clearing

When we have a significant snowfall, Colwood crews work around the clock to keep roads as safe and clear as possible.

Colwood roads are iced and cleared in the following order:

• Major roads
• Steep Hills
• Connectors, School and Playground zones
• Local streets

Parked cars hamper plows and equipment - your help is needed

In the event of a snowfall, please do not park on the travelled portion of the roads. Snow plows need to be able to negotiate the roads and get them cleared as quickly as possible. This includes cul-de-sacs, which the plows cannot manoeuver through when cars are parked on the street. This prevents those roads from being cleared.

Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. Vehicles parked contrary to traffic signage may need to be towed. 

Please clear walkways around your property

Property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks and footpaths adjacent to their property.

It takes a community: If you are able, please offer to help elderly or other neighbours who may need assistance with snow clearing. In every snow event, there are heartwarming stories of neighbours looking out for one another. It is one of the strengths of our community.

Road safety

Please avoid driving during extreme conditions. Use alternate transportation whenever possible.  If you must drive, ensure your vehicle has good winter tires, carry chains, clear all snow from your car, lower your speed and keep a safe distance from others.

Find more winter driving tips at https://shiftintowinter.ca/

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