PREPARE FOR WINTER DRIVING
Winter driving can be extremely hazardous , especially in Western Pennsylvania . With the drop in temperatures , you should always prepare for snow and ice on our roadways . Stay informed of fast changing weather patterns , by signing up for local weather alerts to receive text messages and optional storm alerts for your area .
The first thing you should do is make sure your vehicle is ready for winter . A properly winterized vehicle will help make these months a little less challenging to navigate . A quick walk around your vehicle will tell you if you ’ re ready or not .
• Snow tires are always recommended , they have deeper , more flexible tread , and are designed for snow covered roads . But , if you are using all-season tires , check the tread on your tires and replace if less than 2 / 32 of an inch .
• Check your wiper blades and replace if needed . Be sure to use winter rated washer fluid for temperatures as cold as -30 degrees .
• Check your vehicle lighting- headlights , brakes lights , turn signals , etc .
• Check your cooling system and top off any other fluids .
WINTER DRIVING TIPS-
• If heavy snow and ice are in the forecast , wait out any storms if possible or leave yourself extra time for getting to your destination .
• Know your vehicle ’ s capabilities- traction control , anti-lock braking system , etc .
WINTER DRIVING & ROAD MAINTENANCE
• Completely remove all snow and ice from your vehicle to include the windshield , headlights , taillights , mirrors , etc .
• It is also recommended to clean off any front or back cameras . These cameras allow assistive driving features like automatic braking systems to function properly .
• When driving , accelerate and decelerate slowly and avoid fast braking , Increase following distance between vehicles . Avoid aggressive driving maneuvers .
• Always keep a minimum of a half tank of fuel in your vehicle .
WINTER DRIVING ESSENTIALS-
• A cellphone and charger
• Jumper Cables
• Blankets and extra clothing
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Shovel
Remember , the most important things anytime of the year are to always Buckle Up , Use Child Safety Seats Properly , and Never Drink and Drive . haler
TOWNSHIP OF SHALER NEWS
WINTER ROAD MAINTENANCE
Township Right of Way – Removal of Structures : As the Township Public Works Department prepares for winter road maintenance , please remove all basketball hoops and other obstructions or structures within 10 feet of the edge of the paved portion of the public street or highway in the Township .
Chapter 225-107 of the Township Zoning Code states that it is illegal to place any structure within 10 feet of the edge of the paved portion of any public street or highway in the Township .
If these obstructions or structures are not removed from the public right-of-way , the Township will not be responsible for any damage sustained to the structure as a result of snow removal in that area .
Snow Removal on Roads : Please assist the Public Works Department during the winter months and snow removal by following the suggestions below :
• Whenever possible , please park in your driveway and not on the street during a winter storm . This will help the drivers on their snow routes .
• Do not blow or shovel snow on the street after it ’ s been cleared . This is a violation of Township Code Chapter 192 , Article II , and carries a fine of $ 600.00
• Monitor winter storm tracking through the media , plan accordingly and try to avoid unnecessary travel during these storms .
• Unless you have an emergency , please do not call the Township office to report that your street has not been cleared . Rest assured , if it ’ s snowing , we ’ re working . In addition to Township streets , our crews are responsible for all county and state roads with the exception of Route 8 . Streets are prioritized according to high traffic , public transportation and school bus routes first .
SHALER ❘ WINTER 2021 9