Stay safe this winter in all kinds of weather

Winter can bring a wide variety of weather conditions such as heavy rain, wind storms, snow and ice, and freezing temperatures. Visit portmoody.ca/hazards for information on how to stay safe this winter.

Heavy rain
Heavy rainfall can cause flooding, so please remember to clear catch basins near your home. Remove leaves, branches, and other debris to prevent flooding on your street. Be aware of rising water levels near creeks or the inlet that can increase the risk of flooding and flow of debris. Keep children and pets away from watercourses.

Wind storms
Strong winds can lead to power outages, property damage, and blocked roads due to fallen trees or branches. If you see a downed power line, assume the line is live and stay back at least 10 metres. A downed or damaged power line is an emergency – call 9.1.1 for help. Report fallen trees, branches, and other debris on municipal property by calling 604.469.4574 or submitting a form at portmoody.ca/reportaproblem.

Extreme cold
Monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada so you can prepare for freezing temperatures. Anyone looking for a place to warm up is welcome to visit the public areas of the Recreation Complex (300 Ioco Road) or the Civic Centre (100 Newport Drive) during regular operating hours. If you need help or information for vulnerable individuals, consider calling 2.1.1 or visiting bc.211.ca online to learn about available community resources.

Snow and ice

Help us keep sidewalks clear and safe! Residents, strata corporations, and businesses are responsible for removing snow and ice from sidewalks bordering their property within 24 hours, or by 10am if the property is on a Priority Pedestrian Route. The list of Priority Pedestrian Routes can be found at portmoody.ca/snowandice. Remember to clear snow from on and around fire hydrants to ensure emergency access, and clear accessibility ramps for walkways and accessible parking spots to ensure access for all.

The City takes proactive measures such as applying anti-icing materials to roads and pedestrian areas, including sidewalks and pedestrian overpasses, when low temperatures and/or snow are in the forecast. During a snowfall event, City crews remove snow and ice from roads and pedestrian areas according to a priority system outlined in our Winter Road Maintenance Policy. 

Be a good neighbour
In all kinds of weather, please remember to be a good neighbour. If you are able, check on friends, family, and/or neighbours periodically to see if they need assistance. Help others shovel snow if you can. And if someone helps you out by shoveling snow, let us know! We have a special recognition program for Snow Stars who go above and beyond in keeping roads and sidewalks clear. Take a moment to show your gratitude for a good neighbour by filling out our nomination form online at portmoody.ca/snowstars.

Find more safety tips at portmoody.ca/hazards and on the B.C. government’s website, and be sure to review Fraser Health’s Winter Readiness Checklist (PDF).