Spot Sanding
During a light snowfall
or when freezing rain occurs, spot sanding is done at locations such as
signalized intersections, stop signs, bridges, curves, hills, or
locations where sand is requested by law enforcement agencies; such as
the scene of traffic accidents, fires or, other emergencies.
Notifications
Where accidents, fires, or emergencies are not involved, notification
of slick or icy roads are responded to based on the overall conditions
throughout the area of concern. If all roads in a general area are in a
similar condition, the roads are addressed as planned to avoid the
inefficiencies of skipping back and forth across the area.
General Precautions
During the work week, plowing and sanding operations are scheduled to
facilitate the morning commute. In that regard, when a winter storm is
forecasted, crews are scheduled to begin work in the early morning
hours, well before the morning “rush hour”. This allows them to be on
the road ready to respond as conditions change.
In general,
during the weekends and weekday evenings, plowing and sanding operations
are not initiated until the actual road conditions warrant it.
Remote Weather Information Systems (RWIS)
During the winter months, road conditions and weather forecasts are
carefully monitored by road maintenance personnel. Yakima County employs
a network of Remote Weather Information Stations (RWIS) located
throughout the county. Information gathered at these sites assists the
Road Supervisors and the public in determining the current road
conditions. Additionally, this information is used to forecast incoming
storms and associated road conditions.
Mailbox Damage
Mailboxes are sometimes damaged when plowing occurs. On most occasions,
they are knocked down not by the plow itself, but by the force of the
snow as it is being pushed aside. However, most mailboxes, if sturdy and
properly installed, will withstand this force. While government
agencies are not required to replace damaged mailboxes that sit on
public right of way, the Yakima County Public Services Department does
choose to replace damaged mailboxes as a courtesy. Reapplication of
lettering and numbers is the responsibility of the homeowner.
When Clearing Your Driveway
When clearing your driveway, try to pile the snow to the left side as
you face your house, specifically when clearing near the road. This will
prevent the plow blade from dragging the pile across the front of your
driveway. Remember, it is illegal to push snow into the road. Doing so
constitutes obstruction of the roadway and can be dangerous to
motorists. Please, do not push snow into the road.
Equipment Availability
Yakima County has the following equipment available for snow removal and sanding operations:
- Road Graders (9)
- 10 yard truck plows with sanders (10)
- 5 yard truck plows with sanders (8)
- Truck plows with sanders and prewet systems (2)
- Truck plows (no sanders) (3)
Winter sanding material is stockpiled at four locations throughout the County.