Snow storms and priority response
Winter Announcement
In the event of a typical snowfall, Facilities Management crews will begin to clear snow in the evening when parking lots and sidewalks are less congested. If accumulation isn't excessive, hard surfaces will be cleared, sanded and salted prior to 8am with maintenance checks operating throughout the day.
If a major winter storm arrives, our team turns to the strategic Snow Operations Procedure, an internal guideline including on-call lists, priority locations, severe weather and emergency responses, closure protocol and more. The Division's high level of preparedness has evolved as a result of battling snow over the decades. Careful attention to the weather systems in the region helps prepare our crews for upcoming efforts. However, there are several variables that can take standard protocol off track, such as, the time of day and duration the snow falls, the total volume of snow, wind and temperature (freezing or thawing) and even campus-specific factors, such as the time of year (exams) or the day of the week (less activity in academic buildings on weekend).
Priority locations
Campus roadways are top priority, especially along high volume routes. Following that, crews clear accumulation in priority order, focussing on essential services such as emergency routes, accessibility infrastructure, walkways, daycare, loading docks, and large lots.
Service changes
News and updates of severe weather leading to service interruptions and/or closures will be issued by Western's Communications and Public Affairs department; www.uwo.ca or Twitter @westernu.
Be safe
During cold and snowy conditions, community members are encouraged to take care while traveling on campus, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, leave extra time, and report service restrictions to Client Services; fmhelp@uwo.ca or 519-661-3304.
