Winter Tips

The City of Niagara Falls is responsible for clearing snow from around bus shelters.

Snowplows have no place to push the snow except to the curb or shoulder of the road. Sometimes this happens just after you have finished shovelling. We appreciate that this can be frustrating; however, we ask your cooperation in clearing the snow without placing it on the roadway. It is illegal to push snow from your property onto the street. If you hire a private contractor to clear your driveway, make sure the contractor does not push snow into the travelled portion of the roadway, or fill in sidewalks.
Pile snow on the right side of your driveway (when facing the road) if possible, when shovelling. This helps reduce the amount of snow created by the snowplow at the end of your driveway.
Reflective snow markers are available at many local retailers and can be an inexpensive way to help mark the driveway boundary, especially in high-traffic areas. Snow markers also help to guide road plows and sidewalk plows during storms and can protect properties from potential damage to the lawn.
Sometimes the City receives noise complaints from residents regarding snow plowing operations. Regretfully, there is no way to avoid this problem. Sidewalk and road clearing operations are undertaken day and night in order to quickly and efficiently provide for motorists and pedestrians in accordance with provincial minimum maintenance standards (MMS).

Give more distance between cars, slow down, and allow yourself more travel time.
Clear snow off your car windows, windshields, roof, trunk and hood before driving.
Good visibility keeps yourself and others safe.
Remember: speed limits are set for ideal conditions.
Look twice for pedestrians crossing the road.
Give extra time and space to stop in bad weather.
Prevent hydroplaning by scanning ahead for large puddles and slowing down.
If you hydroplane, ease off the gas and keep steering in the direction you want to go – avoid braking.
If you hit black ice and start to skid, don’t brake. Ease off the gas, and steer smoothly in the direction you want to go.

Check battery condition, terminals, windshield wipers and washer fluid levels.
Check coolant system level, lights and signals.
Observe tire wear and pressure.
Consider using snow tires for extra traction in slippery weather.
Keep your gas tank at least half full.
Start your block heater several hours before driving.
Start your car at least one minute before you drive it.
Drive slowly while engine components warm up.
Completely clear your vehicle of snow and ice, including the windows, mirrors, roof, trunk, hood and lights.

Be prepared for winter driving and always keep a winter survival kit in your car.

Kits should include:

Being aware of our surroundings is key – although hoods, hats and umbrellas are necessary in our climate, it is important you have good visibility.
Always make eye contact with approaching drivers and cyclists before crossing the road.
Wear bright reflective clothing at night or during poor visibility. There are even reflective items for your pets.
Pay attention and don’t text while walking.

Remove snow from around fire hydrants on or near your property to enable quick access by emergency personnel if the need arises.
Help prevent street flooding and icing by clearing snow away from storm sewer catch basins near your property.
Do not place your garbage or recycle boxes on top of snowbanks. If possible, place them on your driveway near the edge of the road.
Ask someone to clear your sidewalk if you’re away
Please assist elderly or disabled neighbours by clearing snow for them

Menu