Mission residents appear to be getting tired of the icy road conditions. Social media is flooded with complaints about the recent cold snap and a perceived lack of action by the district to help remedy the situation.
However, according to a District of Mission press release, all available equipment and staff are working around the clock to clear and treat roads throughout the municipality.
“While crews have been able to attend to all roads in Mission, the melting and freezing cycles combined with wind and drifting snow mean some remain slippery despite multiple treatments,” the release stated. It went on to explain that cold temperatures can stop salt and sand from sticking to the ice and compacted snow, and the combination of winds, drifting snow and traffic has blown the material off many roads and intersections.
Residents are reminded to take extra time and drive with extra care because, despite multiple treatments per day, some intersections and roads remain slippery.
“We have all our equipment and staff out on the roads around the clock and are taking every opportunity to remove ice from the roads whenever the temperatures warm up enough to make that possible,” said Tracy Kyle, director of engineering and public works.
Kyle also said as Mission isn’t normally a winter community, the district is somewhat limited in equipment, but does have every piece available out on the roads.
Call volumes at Mission’s public works are extremely high and staff are frequently unable to return calls at this time,. With patrols out around the clock, staff are aware of slippery areas.
“Public safety is the top priority of the District of Mission and staff ask residents to check in with neighbours and ensure those who need assistance or have mobility challenges have the help they need,” the release states.
Free salt and sand:
On Wednesday, the District of Mission began providing free salt-and-sand mix. It is available for residents at Firehall #1 to help treat icy sidewalks and driveways. Up to two five-gallon pails of salt and sand mix are available per vehicle at Firehall #1, 33330 7th Avenue. Residents must bring their own pails and shovel. In lieu of any charge, the district encourages residents picking up mix to consider making a donation to local charities that help those in need through the winter months.
With cold temperatures and more snow in the forecast, the district is reminding residents to be prepared for continued winter conditions.
