With snow starting to fly, it’s important that we work together to continue to keep our neighbourhood safe and accessible for all who live here. 

The Town of Cochrane is responsible for street snow plowing. Snow plowing commences after three centimetres of snow has accumulated or when snow drifting impedes traffic movement. In most cases, the snow is plowed producing windrows. Snow is plowed first from emergency routes, followed by arterial thoroughfares, collectors, designated hills and roads commonly used by emergency response personnel, industrial area, and residential intersections connecting with arterial thoroughfares and collectors.

During a snowstorm you can help the Town crews by not parking along emergency routes, arterial thoroughfares and collectors.  The best option is to always use your off street parking such as a driveway, parking pad or garage. 

Other options to assist are as follows:

– Help us keep our streets clear and safe this winter by taking care around plows and sanders.

– Shovel driveways and sidewalks onto your property not roadways

– Keep storm drains clear of ice and snow to allow for optimum drainage.

– Exercise extreme care when driving in inclement weather. Driving on snow packed and icy roads requires your full attention. During times of poor road conditions, allow extra room between you and the vehicle ahead of you.

– Remember to brake slowly.

– Keep your windshield clean at all times.

– During times of reduced visibility, watch for bicycles, and pedestrians, especially around schools. If at all possible do not drive during a storm. It is much safer to stay at home and wait until conditions improve.

– Never assume that because the temperature is above zero the roads are safe. Road salt does not work miracles and is not effective below -10 degrees Celsius.

The Town relies on input from residents at times of snow emergencies. Residents’ advice on road conditions will be investigated and appropriate action taken if necessary. Please contact the Roads Division during regular office hours at 403-851-2590.

The town has not designated residential side walk clearing as part of their snow clearing efforts. This is the responsibility of the homeowner. Under BYLAW NO. 01/2009, Homeowners are expected to clear snow off the side walk adjacent to their property within 48 hours after it has fallen, formed, or been deposited. 

Not all of the residents of Bow Meadows may be able to safely remove snow and ice from their properties. As a community, if it is within your capacity to do so, ofter a helping hand where you can. 

You can also volunteer to be a Snow Angel to help those in need in our community by visiting https://snowangelscanada.ca. 

Be safe and enjoy the snow!