Ontario Police Chief Philip Welch
By PHILIP WELCH | Ontario Police Chief
This winter, we are experiencing a difficult series of weather patterns that has been wreaking havoc with our roads and sidewalks. There is a series of warm days (temperatures above freezing) upon us, but lows at night will be below freezing. Of course, this means repeated melting and freezing, causing any unmaintained surfaces where there is vehicle or foot travel to be unpredictably slippery and/or hazardous.
The Village of Ontario Police wish to remind everyone of the responsibility to keep sidewalks safe for foot travel throughout the village. The owner, occupant, or person in charge of each building or lot in the village must remove snow from any abutting or adjoining sidewalks within 24 hours of the end of snowfall and continue to maintain the sidewalk free and clear of snow and ice.
In the event that icing occurs to the extent it cannot be immediately removed, which is the case frequently this year, the person responsible must keep salt, sand, or sawdust sprinkled on the ice at all times. The sidewalk area includes the portion crossing the end of any driveways as well, where the snow or ice is often thicker and more firmly packed or frozen.
We urge everyone to please heed these responsibilities for the safety and benefit of all the citizens of the village. Be careful, and stay upright!
