News Flash

COQUITLAM, B.C., Dec. 22, 2021 – Now is the time to get winter wise in Coquitlam as we prepare for an extended period of cold, sub-zero weather through the next couple of weeks. 

Coquitlam crews will continue working 24/7 to manage potential ice concerns by salting, with a focus on priority routes and steep grades. City staff will be monitoring the situation closely to mobilize additional resources as necessary. Drivers should be prepared for winter driving conditions at any time over the coming weeks.

When snow is falling, streets will be plowed according to the City’s priority routes system focusing on primary roads (arterials, collectors, bus routes and access roads to schools) with local roads and lanes only being plowed as resources allow. Check out Captain Public Works explaining our priority routes.  

Staying Safe through Extended Cold Weather

While spending time outdoors during extended periods of sub-zero temperatures, it is important to stay warm and watch for signs of frostbite or even hypothermia. Everyone is encouraged to bundle up in layers, and limit time outdoors. 

Generally, even during sustained cold periods, it is not cold enough for long enough to be able to skate on local lakes and ponds. For your own safety, we ask, that you stay off the ice during cold weather.

All of the City’s facilities are open to members of the public during the day as a place to warm up. Holiday hours will be in effect from Dec. 24 to Jan. 4. Visit www.coquitlam.ca/reccentres for a full list of recreation facilities and operating hours.

Supporting Vulnerable People During Cold Weather

• During extended periods of cold and wet weather, Coquitlam works with BC Housing and non-profit housing partners to provide additional support to unhoused or vulnerable people within our community. This includes: 
• Exploring opportunities for additional spaces at the 3030 Gordon shelter.
• Additional emergency shelters at four Coquitlam churches (to be operational in early 2022).
• Outreach by Coquitlam Fire / Rescue and Coquitlam Bylaw officers in areas known to be frequented by unhoused or vulnerable people, to do public safety checks.
• Shower program at City Centre Aquatic Complex.

Parking Restrictions During Snow Events

Coquitlam has implemented a number of parking restrictions to help City crews to plow streets clear of snow and ice in order to make the streets safer for winter driving. Parking restrictions are effective Nov. 1, 2021 to March 15, 2022. 

Residents are expected to not park on the street - all vehicles should be parked in a driveway, garage, carport or other area of their private property. Drivers are asked to follow all posted parking restrictions. In addition to allowing our crews to make our streets safer, this will prevent drivers from having to dig out their vehicle, and avoid a ticket or towing. 

Maps showing all areas affected by seasonal parking restrictions are available at www.coquitlam.ca/winterwise under the Parking Restriction tab. 

How to Know When the Parking Ban is in Effect

The City will advise when the parking ban has been activated in the following ways:

• Public Service Advisories to social media 
• By email - we encourage all residents to sign up for the Winter Parking Restrictions email list using NotifyMe at www.coquitlam.ca/winterwise.  

Tips to Keep You and Your Family Safe and Comfortable

To minimize disruptions, please follow these helpful tips to be prepared:

Home and property

• Shut off your outside water to protect outdoor faucets and other plumbing from freezing.
• Assess your trees and trim dead branches to reduce the danger of them falling on power lines or your house during a storm.
• Clean the catch basin grates near your property regularly to prevent flooding. You can locate catch basins adjacent to your property by viewing this map. 
• Have flashlights and extra batteries on hand.
• Consider an alternate safe heating system in case of power failures (not gas, propane or kerosene, which cannot be used inside) - make sure to follow directions. 
• Clear your sidewalk and driveway by shoveling snow on the right side of your driveway as you face the road – this can help reduce the amount of snow that gets pushed back onto your driveway from a snow plow.
• If a snowplow approaches while you are out walking, move to the inside of the sidewalk and stay far away from the road while it passes. 
• If you have a basketball hoop on the road (especially in cul de sacs) please move it onto your property to permit plows to clear the street properly.

Vehicle

• Take transit if you are not comfortable driving in the snow, or if roads are impassable or dangerous. 
• Ensure your vehicle is winterized and in proper working condition. Drive only with good snow tires. 
• Keep a small, portable emergency kit in your vehicle with food, water, extra clothing, first aid supplies and other necessities (download a checklist on the Winter Preparedness & Safety page at www.coquitlam.ca/winterprep. 

Report Area of Concern

Residents can report any areas of snow concern through the Coquitlam Snow Response Request tool available at www.coquitlam.ca/winterwise. This tool enables information to be provided to City staff in real-time and facilitates a more efficient and effective response.

Be Winter Wise

Coquitlam’s Winter Wise program kicks into gear each winter to minimize the impact of snow, ice, storms and colder temperatures. While the City works to keep roads safe and reduce service disruptions, residents are encouraged to do their part. For more information, or for City updates during winter weather events, visit www.coquitlam.ca/winterwise or follow the City on Facebook or Twitter.

Media contact:
Michelle Frilund
Senior Communications & Engagement Specialist
604-218-3659
mfrilund@coquitlam.ca