SAFETY REMINDER IN EXTREME COLD TEMPERATURES

While spring is on its way, Environment Canada is forecasting extremely cold temperatures over the weekend of February 28 to March 2, 2014.  This is an update of City services and operations for the weekend and what to expect with the cold.  For 24/7 updates on service interruptions for Saskatoon Light & Power, Saskatoon Transit, Landfill and Garbage Collection service, click on Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca, or connect with the City on Twitter or Facebook.  

Be safe
We hope that everyone stays warm and safe as temperatures continue to drop.  According to Environment Canada, temperatures of -40 C or lower put individuals at a high or very high risk of frostbite.  If you are heading outside you should cover all skin, dress in warm layers with a wind-resistant outer layer, stay dry and keep active.  At temperatures of -55 C or colder, the Saskatoon Fire Department recommends that people stay indoors.          

We would also like to remind you that these cold temperatures can be painful for your four-legged friends and that you should limit their time outdoors.  

Driving conditions in extreme cold temperatures
Roadway crews will be working continuously to provide safe driving conditions with sanding as required.  Extreme cold can create icy conditions on sidewalks and roads, especially on bridges and overpasses.  In addition:  
- The very cold road conditions combine with ice crystals in the air settle and cause roadways to be more slippery than usual winter driving conditions.  Condensation, which drifts from vehicle exhaust when stopped or in rush hour traffic near intersections, may also contribute to more frost on the road.
- In very cold weather, sand does not stick to the roadway in the high speed traffic paths as long as it would under warmer temperatures. Salt is ineffective below -16 C.
- We take extra precautionary measures in extreme weather conditions: All bridge decks are checked and sanded every two hours.  Bridge decks are usually sanded just before rush hour because it’s very difficult to sand during peak times.  

City Crews will be doing their best to keep roads sanded, so please watch for equipment on the road.  The large machines used are equipped with flashing amber lights, move slowly in teams of two or more and can be found on the road at any time of day or night.  By keeping a safe distance from the equipment and approaching slowly, we can all be safe on the road.  

For those who are making trips outside of City Limits, please remember to pack a cold weather emergency kit and keep it handy in your vehicle.  This kit should include: Shovel, matches/survival candle, flashlight, road maps, extra clothing / footwear, sand or kitty litter, emergency food pack, first aid kit, an ice scraper and a blanket.  

Water main repairs in extreme cold temperatures Water main breaks have levelled off, but a significant drop in temperature can cause frost to move deeper into the ground.  Frost movement in the ground is what causes the pipes to shift and can damage weak points. Please call the Public Works customer service call centre 24/7 at 306-975-2476 to report a break or for more information.
- Water & Sewer crews are available over the weekend to attend to any issues with the water and sewer mains, but may require frequent breaks to warm up during the extreme cold. 
- The safety of workers is very important and they are encouraged to take the time to warm up and will not be working outside at temperatures with the wind chill below -55 C.
- Water trailers will provide temporary service for residents and businesses without water service.  They are insulated and propane-heated, so extreme cold should not affect their function. 

Saskatoon Transit in extreme cold temperatures
Saskatoon Transit is preparing to adjust internal workflows to help ensure buses remain on the road and on schedule during the colder temperatures. Please remember that the kneeling or ramp features do not work in temperatures below -25 C.
Saskatoon Transit will be operating the warming area at the downtown bus mall on extended hours throughout the weekend:

- Friday, February 28, 2014 – Closing at 10:30 p.m.
- Saturday, March 1, 2014 – Open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
- Sunday, March 2, 2014 – Open at 9:00 a.m. and extending hours as required. 
Please note that these hours are extended for the warming area only - customers will not be able to purchase passes during the extended hours.  To stay up-to-date about the Transit service, customers can phone 306-975-3100 for information or sign up for the new Transit Service Alert at saskatoon.ca.

We are always prepared
While the City of Saskatoon is always prepared to handle any emergency that may arise throughout the year, we are hyper aware of how extreme cold can be a defining characteristic of an emergency in the winter months.  Our Emergency Measures Organization personnel are ready to respond appropriately, if required, to provide residents with necessary assistance.
For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.