The City of Salem is trying to get a jump on things when it comes to the pending winter weather and is asking residents to help clear the roads. Velvet Hall has more…
CITY OF SALEM SNOW SAFETY TIPS AS THE STORM APPROACHES
1. If at all possible, park your car in your driveway or otherwise off the street to make room for the plow trucks.
2. When driving behind a snowplow, remember that the road in front of the plow is usually in much worse condition than the roadway behind the plow. Plows will typically travel under 35 miles per hour and there is always a temptation to pass them. For your safety, it is recommended that you stay a safe distance behind the snowplows.
3. Please do not take it personally if a plow pushes snow into your driveway or other cleared area. Their job is to clear the streets from curb to curb. If possible, wait until the plow has been by a couple of times to finish clearing snow from these areas.
4. Emergency routes are the first priority for snowplows. Side streets will be plowed but may not be completed until later in the storm.
5. The City of Salem Street Department and Emergency Services work together to provide access for ambulance, fire trucks, and police vehicles in case of emergencies. An emergency is considered a threat to the health, safety, and/or welfare of our residents.
6. Please do not call the Police Department to ask when the snow is going to stop or to inquire if specific roads are clear. Phone lines need to remain open for emergencies. Stay tuned to local media outlets for details on the storm.
7. Please clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving. Peephole driving (only removing a small area of ice and snow) reduces visibility and increases the chance that ice or snow will dislodge and strike another vehicle while traveling.
8. Please do not drive during or soon after the storm unless you have to! If you have no choice, then please slow down and remember that snow and ice make stopping distances much longer. Remember to leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes. If you begin to slide, take your foot off the gas and turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide. Do not apply the brakes, as that will cause further loss of control of the vehicle.
9. Bridges and overpasses accumulate ice first. Approach them with extreme caution and do not apply your brakes while on the bridge or overpass.
