Public Works Snow & Ice Response Info & Snow Route Map
Driving on Snow & Ice
Kenmore Police and Public Works ask that you avoid driving and stay home during a storm. If you must drive, take it slow! Driving in ice and snow, combined with Kenmore's steep hills, can make for hazardous driving conditions. Please remember to use safe driving tactics in winter conditions, including slower speeds, slower acceleration, slower steering and slower braking.
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Check conditions: When you see snow or ice forecast, plan ahead. Talk to your employer, local school or day-care center. How will they provide you information? The Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) offers reports on highway conditions with online Statewide Traveler Information. If conditions appear hazardous, don't leave home unless you have to.
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Extra time: Give yourself extra time. It's not worth putting yourself and others in a dangerous situation just to be on time.
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Chaining up: A short how-to video by WSDOT, posted on YouTube, shows the basic steps for putting chains on your car.
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Before leaving home: Pack a basic winter survival kit and travel gear in your vehicle. The kits should include tire chains, ice scraper/snowbrush, jumper cables, road flares, snow shovel. flashlight, batteries, blanket, snacks, water, gloves, boots, and a first-aid kit.
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Driving tips: The faster you're going, the longer it will take to stop. When accelerating on snow or ice, take it slow to avoid slipping. When braking, do so slowly and never slam the brakes. Give yourself plenty of room to stop. Also, make sure to keep your fuel tank full.
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Black ice: Roads that seem dry or just wet may actually be slippery with black ice. Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shady areas.
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Snowplows: Give snowplows room to work. The plows are wide and can cross the centerline or shoulder. Do not tailgate and try not to pass. If you must pass, take extreme caution and beware of the snow cloud.
Power Outages
Please check Puget Sound Energy's outage map, or call 1-888-225-5773, for estimated restoration time on power outages. Please NOT CALL 911 to report power outages, unless there is a life safety emergency or you see a downed power line. Never use generators or charcoal or gas grills indoors. If you have a neighbor who moved here from other parts of the world where that practice may be more common, please see King County's carbon monoxide fact sheets here in multiple languages.
Home Safety
Severe cold can freeze the water in your pipes, causing them to burst. Be cautious with alternative ways of heating your home. If freezing temperatures are in the forecast, take the following steps:
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Drip warm water from the indoor faucet farthest from where water enters the house.
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Insulate outdoor faucets and pipes in unheated garages and crawl spaces.
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If a water pipe breaks, immediately turn off the main water shut-off valve and/or water meter to control flooding and water damage. Then call a plumber.
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Use alternative heat sources safely and wisely. If you use a kerosene heater, make sure there is plenty of ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide gas buildup. Keep heaters away from curtains and clothing, and make sure heaters are turned off before going to bed. Do not leave children or pets alone with a portable heater. Do not use outdoor grills or camp stoves indoors as it may cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
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When snow falls, shovel your sidewalk and driveway. If you have neighbors who have difficulty shoveling snow, consider cleaning theirs too.
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Businesses and building managers should shovel sidewalks outside their locations so customers and employees can get around.
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What to do with your trash, recycling, and yard waste collection after snow storms.
Worried about your roof or carport? Check out an excellent resource from our neighbors in Bothell.
Clearing Drains
Once snow starts to melt, our drains need to be clear. If you can safely do so, crews are asking you to clear the storm drains in front of your house from snow and debris. Thank you!
