After Snow Action Items

Mayor Rawlings-Blake Reminds Citizens of Responsibilities

In the days following the storm, residents are responsible for clearing snow from walks, vehicles.

BALTIMORE, MD. (February 6, 2010) – As the last of the snow falls on the city, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake reminded residents of their responsibility to begin clearing snow from their residences. In the coming days, it will be important for people to clear snow from footpaths, vents and inlets to facilitate the city’s speedy recovery from this historic winter storm.

As of 5:00 p.m. today, anywhere from 25 to 30 inches of snow have fallen on the city. The city remains in Phase II of its Snow Emergency Plan. People should not drive unless it is absolutely important, and cars cannot be parked on Snow Emergency Routes. The Mayor asked residents and businesses to be patient while city crews work to make secondary roadways passable and safe. The City's Snow Team has an enormous task of removing more than 2 feet of wet, heavy snow and is working diligently to make Baltimore ’s roadways safe for travel.

“From clearing the primary and secondary roads to answering emergency calls, the City is doing its part,” said Mayor Rawlings-Blake. “Now it is time for the people of Baltimore to work together.”

The Mayor listed responsibilities of Baltimore residents:

· Continue to stay off the roads to make room for snow plows.

· Neighbors should work together to clear snow from around fire hydrants. Significant snowfalls like the one this weekend create drifts that make hydrants difficult to find and will put communities at risk.

· All snow and ice should be removed from the entire width of public sidewalks in both residential and business areas. There is an ordinance regarding snow removal that identifies the responsibilities of citizens in removing snow from sidewalks, resulting in fines up to $50. Property owners are reminded that snow removal is required within 24 - 48 hours after the end of a snow, ice, or wind event.

· All snow and ice must be removed from a vehicle before operating;

· Do not throw snow into the street when clearing off vehicles and sidewalks, keeping snow as close to the curb as possible;

· Storm drains and inlets must also be cleared of snow and ice. Keeping them clear allows melting snow to flow away, preventing the flooding of intersections and basements.