With temperatures dropping this week, Port Coquitlam residents are advised to make sure they are prepared for the winter weather.

City snow and ice removal

The City’s snow and ice removal fleet and equipment are ready to go when needed. The City is monitoring road temperatures daily to determine when brining is required. The City’s snow and ice removal program includes:

  • Automated road sensor systems, which includes in-pavement temperature and moisture sensors to alert staff of changes to road conditions and the need for brining.
  • Brine trucks, which deposit a de-icing water-salt solution that sticks to the roads better and is more environmentally-friendly than dry salt.
  • A wide array of vehicles, including dump trucks with sanders and snow plows, single-axle trucks that plough and apply brine or sand, several bobcats and utility vehicles, a front-end loader and two backhoes.

Once the snow fall starts, crews will be removing snow from priority routes:

  • First priority: main and arterial roads, steep hills, school zones along steep hills.
  • Second priority: bus routes, school zones (flat areas), collector roads
  • Third priority: residential streets leading to subdivisions, industrial side streets. Back lanes are last priority.

Note – in a larger scale snow event the City may not get to second and third priority routes until the first priority routes are under control.

Waste collection in the snow

The City will collect garbage first when the temperatures drop. If roads are hazardous due to snow and ice, the city may temporarily cancel waste collection. If this occurs, notifications will be posted on the PoCo waste-line App downloadable at portcoquitlam.ca/wasteline, on the City’s social media channels and at www.portcoquitlam.ca/snow. Crews will begin collecting waste in missed zones after completing the regularly scheduled zone the next day. It may take several days to complete collection for missed zones.

When it snows, Port Coquitlam, all residents and businesses in Port Coquitlam are required to remove snow and ice from sidewalks bordering their property within 24 hours after a snowfall. Residents and businesses who do not clear sidewalks can face a fine of $150 per incident. If you know of a neighbour with physical challenges, shovel their sidewalk when you do your own.
The City of Port Coquitlam also provides the following tips:

Before the snow arrives:

  • Make sure you have a snow shovel and other snow removal equipment (e.g. salt). Once the snow begins, it can be difficult to find these items in the stores.
  • Winterize your vehicle and ensure you have good winter tires. Keep items such as, jumper cables, shovel, ice scraper, first aid kit, flashlight, antifreeze in your vehicle.
  • Prepare your home – have your furnace inspected, shut off outside water and clean gutters and catchbasin grates/
  • Make alternate plans for getting to school and work in the snow.
  • Help family members who are elderly or have mobility issues make their preparations and have on hand any specialty items that may be needed.
  • Assemble emergency kits for your home and car (details at portcoquitlam.ca/ep).
  • Have your emergency plan, contact list ready, extra keys and some cash in smaller bills.
  • Ensure cellular phones are adequately charged and have a back-up battery charged.
  • Stock up on water, food supplies and ensure your prescriptions are filled.
  • Do not use a camp stove, barbecue or propane or kerosene heater indoors.

When it snows:

  • When removing snow from your property, also clear any sidewalk openings to make roads accessible for those in wheelchairs, scooters or with strollers.
  • When shoveling snow, pile it on your property – not on the sidewalk or street.
  • Clear snow and ice away from fire hydrants.
  • Drive only when necessary, and only in a vehicle with good winter tires.
  • Don’t let children play in snow piles or roadside snowbanks.
  • Avoid parking on the street, as parked vehicles hamper snow plows.
  • Help prevent flooding by cleaning leaves, snow and debris from catchbasin grates.
  • Check on neighbours and family members who may need assistance.
  • If safe, clear snow from tree branches near your home.
  • If you come across a downed or damaged power line, assume it is live and a danger. Stay back at least 10 m (the length of a large bus) and dial 911 to report.
  • Report any fallen trees blocking traffic, pot holes or damaged grates to publicworks@portcoquitlam.ca, call 604-927-5496 or take a photo and report the problem using the PoCo waste-line app.

For more snow-removal information and winter preparation tips, visit portcoquitlam.ca/snow, email publicworks@portcoquitlam.ca or call 604.927.5496. Residents are also encouraged to follow the City on social media for updates and download the PoCo waste-line app at portcoquitlam.ca/wasteline.