Winter Operations

#Muskoka winter operations teams are ready for weather!

• District crews, along with our partner municipalities and contracted services, are monitoring our road networks around the clock and dispatching crews to keep our roads safe. 

• Motorists are cautioned that the projected drop in temperature might lead to hazardous driving conditions. Black ice may quickly form on roads as temperatures dip. Please take additional care while driving in these situations - keep your lights on, even during the day - and keep plenty of room between you and the car ahead of you.

Updates will be shared if weather conditions change. As always, please drive according to road and weather conditions for both your safety and those around you.

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Winter Operations Update 

District crews, together with our partner municipalities and outsourced services, prepare for weather advisories and alerts – and monitor weather conditions 24/7. Muskoka’s first significant snowfall this winter saw crews working together to restore regular service to roads by responding to calls for plowing, sanding, and salting based on the changing weather and temperatures.

This is just the beginning – winter in Muskoka is here!

• Be prepared  - you can make this beautiful winter season in #Muskoka easier and safer for yourself, your neighbours, and operations crews, who are working hard 24/7 this winter season to keep you safe – here’s how you can help:
• No more socks and sandals – no matter how fashionable they may be, slides and sneakers are not appropriate footwear to be wearing this time of year. Footwear designed for outdoor winter conditions, such as boots and winter shoes with deep treads and low heel are best - shoe grips or ice cleats can give you extra traction.
• Please, if it is safe to do so and you’re out shoveling your driveway, clear catch basins near your property of snow and ice to lessen the possibility of flooding due to changes in the weather.
• Did you know? We need your help to make sure fire hydrants are accessible. Although District crews often ensure a pathway is made available to fire hydrants, we ask for the neighbourhood’s help to provide a clear path at all times to fire hydrants. It’s crucial, especially after heavy snowfalls, that hydrants remain accessible, so crews can avoid any delays if there is an emergency in your community.  
• Ouch, my back! Don’t pile your garbage can, blue boxes or organics bins on-top of snowbanks. Clear a spot on the ground to the right side of your driveway, and be mindful they aren’t in the way of snow removal operations. It’s always a good idea to write your address on your bins with a permanent marker or label – if the wind blows them away, they can find their way home.

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• Make sure you have your snow tires installed for the winter season
• Ensure snow and ice are cleared off your vehicle (don’t forget your roof!)
• Ensure your windows and mirrors are clear both inside and out
• Ensure your vehicle is fully fueled or charged for your trip

• Leave extra distance between your vehicle and those in front of you
• Turn on your lights to let others see you more easily
• As always, wear your seatbelt
• Put your phone away, and don’t use cruise control features