Understanding Snow Emergencies (1)

Winter storms can create dangerous conditions quickly. To keep roads clear and ensure emergency vehicles can travel safely, Skippack Township enforces Snow Emergency regulations as outlined in Township ordinance. Residents are encouraged to understand what triggers a Snow Emergency and how they can help during winter weather events.

🚨 What Is a Snow Emergency?

A Snow Emergency is automatically in effect when snow accumulation reaches:

  • Two (2) inches on designated Snow Emergency Routes

  • Four (4) inches on all other Township roads

These thresholds are established by Township ordinance and allow Public Works crews and emergency responders to operate safely and efficiently.

Snow Emergency Routes are designated by the Skippack Township Board of Supervisors and are identified by posted signage.

🚗 Vehicles & Parking During a Snow Emergency

To help snowplows and emergency vehicles move through the Township:

  • Remove vehicles from Snow Emergency Routes as soon as snow begins to accumulate

  • Do not park on streets during a Snow Emergency, especially on designated routes

  • Park vehicles in driveways or off-street areas whenever possible

Vehicles left on the roadway may:

  • Obstruct snowplows and emergency responders

  • Be ticketed or towed at the owner’s expense

If travel is necessary during a storm, please ensure your vehicle is:

  • Properly equipped with good tires and sufficient fuel

  • Completely cleared of snow and ice from the roof, hood, windows, and lights

🚜 Help Snowplows Do Their Job

Skippack Township Public Works crews work diligently during winter storms. Residents are asked to:

  • Be patient—crews prioritize main roads, emergency routes, and hills

  • Do not follow snowplows too closely and never attempt to pass them

  • Keep trash cans, basketball hoops, and other objects away from roadways during storms

🏠 Sidewalks & Property Responsibilities

Property owners are responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to their property.

  • Sidewalks should be shoveled as soon as possible after snowfall ends

  • Clearing sidewalks helps:

    • Pedestrians, seniors, and children walking to school

    • Mail carriers and emergency personnel

  • Please shovel snow onto your lawn, not into the street

🚪 Fire Hydrants & Storm Drains

Residents are encouraged to:

  • Clear snow away from fire hydrants near their property

  • Keep storm drains clear when possible to help prevent flooding during snow melt

🧓 Look Out for Your Neighbors

Winter storms can be especially challenging for some residents. Please consider:

  • Checking on elderly or disabled neighbors

  • Offering help with shoveling sidewalks or driveways if you are able

📢 Stay Informed

Snow Emergency announcements and updates will be shared through:

Residents are encouraged to monitor weather forecasts and plan ahead.

🧤 A Final Reminder

Snow Emergencies are declared to protect public safety and allow roads to be cleared efficiently. Cooperation from residents helps ensure:

✔ Faster snow removal
✔ Safer travel conditions
✔ Continued access for police, fire, and EMS

Thank you for helping keep Skippack Township safe during winter weather.

Recent Articles