With the leaves beginning to fall and winter soon approaching, the City of Ottawa is gearing up for another snowy season by preparing its fleet of hardworking snowplows. These winter heroes, with the help of their operators, tirelessly treat and clear our roads to ensure they are safe and passable for motorists.
Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when a plow is nearby:
- Flashing blue lights: When you see a snowplow or sidewalk plow with flashing blue lights, it means they are hard at work. Please step aside into an open driveway if a sidewalk plow is approaching.
- Keep your distance: Remind your parents to always stay at least three car lengths behind our vehicles and never attempt to pass them.
- Wave from a distance: While it may be exciting to watch snowplows in action, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance, especially for children. Always wave to our operators from a safe distance and never approach working vehicles.
- Wear bright colours: This allows snowplow operators to see you when you’re outside playing in the snow.
- Build snow forts in the backyard: Snow forts should never be built along the road because our snowplow operators won’t be able to see you.
Did you know that City plows clear and treat over 13,000 lane kilometres of roadway, which includes Highway 174 and the Transitway? That is like driving from Halifax to Vancouver (and back) in a snowstorm! After clearing that much snow each winter, we think our plows deserve some recognition – by getting names!
Name the Plow Campaign
Calling all children and youth under the age of 16! We are excited to announce today’s launch of the "Name the Plow" campaign where you can participate in naming 24 City of Ottawa snowplows, symbolizing the city’s 24 wards. The campaign aims to raise awareness about snowplow safety among Ottawa’s children and youth while adding some fun to the winter season.
How to participate:
- Name submission period: September 9 – 30
- Voting period: October 14 – 21
- Announcement of winning names: October 24
Visit the Engage Ottawa page for more campaign info.
The fun doesn’t end at naming snowplows!
Volunteer opportunities: Be a Snow Angel!
Consider becoming a Snow Angel! This program encourages residents to assist elderly neighbors or those with disabilities by clearing snow or ice from their driveways, steps, or walkways. For more information on the Snow Angel Program, visit Ottawa.ca.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.