Garbage collection update
North side route:
- December 30: the only route that will have its garbage collected is “Thursday North” regularly scheduled pickup.
Those who should have had their Wednesday garbage picked up on December 30 will have their garbage picked up December 31 along with regular Friday servicing.
Snow clearing
In the event of snowfall, property owners and residents are advised that the Township of Esquimalt’s Streets and Traffic Regulation Bylaw requires you to clear snow and ice from the sidewalk in front of your premises. Please remember your elderly or disabled neighbours who would appreciate your assistance with snow removal.
The Township requests that when you clean your driveway and sidewalks please place the snow on the right side of your driveway as you face the road. This will keep snow plows from filling in your driveway as they clear the roads.
In addition, residents are asked to ensure that surface drains (which may be located at the bottom of driveways and stairwells) are clear of snow and debris and remain clear through the winter. Township crews will make every effort to keep roadside catch basins clear.
- Find more information on the order in which roads are salted or cleared of snow
- For more information, please contact Engineering and Public Works (250-414-7108)
Safety tips
- Be careful with space heaters: keep ample space around the heater and ensure it is away from water and flammable objects.
- Check on your vulnerable neighbours; they may have trouble getting supplies in the cold weather.
- Avoid over exertion when shovelling the snow, take breaks and go inside to warm up.
- Inside the house wear loose fitting but warm clothing in layers. Drink hot beverages or soups to help keep warm.
- Do not use outdoor heaters or BBQs indoors. This is both a fire risk as well as a carbon monoxide risk.
Preventing frozen pipes
Water pipes in Esquimalt are maintained by the City of Victoria (contact info).
If you are a renter, contact your property manager for clarification on how to manage the cold temperatures in your unit. Here are some general tips:
- Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage.
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if your sinks are on an exterior wall. (If you have small children, be sure to remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals.)
- Let the cold water drip from a faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing.
- Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during day and night.
- If you plan to be away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 15° C.