How to Prepare & Assist
Stay aware and prepare your home and travel plans for the unexpected. Clear your sidewalks of snow and ice. Assist those who need help.
Prepare
Prepare your home for the unexpected.
- Download the Winter Storm Checklist to help you prepare. Listen to the weather forecast and have a plan if severe weather strikes.
- Stock up before the storm. Have a family emergency plan, cell phone and portable charger, battery-operated radio, snow shovel, bag of street salt, warm clothes, extra blankets, flashlights, first aid kit, and supply of food/water/medicine for at least three days.
- Don’t drive if you don’t have to. If you must drive, make sure your vehicle is ready. Have winter supplies in your vehicle. Have tire chains or traction devices. Know the road conditions before you go. Clear your entire vehicle of snow. Drive slow and allow plenty of time and space between vehicles and people.
- Use transit. SDOT works closely with Metro Transit to ensure bus routes are passable. Check the transit snow routes.
- Obey street closure and detours signs. These signs were placed by police for your safety.
Assist
Be a good neighbor. Everyone is a part of the Seattle community. Your help can make all the difference especially for people who have a harder time getting around.
Prepare
Stock up before the storm. Have a snow shovel, bag of street salt, warm clothes, extra blankets, flashlights, first aid kit, and supply of food/water/medicine for at least three days.
Check on your Neighbor
Check in with your neighbor if you know they could use your help. Work together and come up with a plan to ensure your block of sidewalk, storm drains, and corner curb ramps are clear of snow/ice.
Before it Freezes
Sprinkle rock salt (or another environmentally friendly product) on your sidewalk, walkways, and curb ramps to prevent ice from forming.
When it Snows – Clear Sidewalks
Clear sidewalks in front of your home or business every 12 hours before snow turns to ice.