EDMONTON – Road conditions may have improved following last week’s snowfall and freezing rain, but many city sidewalks remain treacherous.
The slick walkways are landing many people in the emergency department with severe injuries, according to the University of Alberta hospital.
The Tuli family is among those experiencing some close calls.
“My little nieces and things are falling back and forth…I almost slipped just getting out of my car,” said Jagdeep Tuli. “My mom almost fell trying to get the garbage out.”
On Tuesday he was busy sprinkling sand on his driveway, in an effort to make it a little less slippery. He says he doesn’t remember the last time the sidewalks were this icy. And he’s not alone.
“I think this is the worst I’ve seen in three or four years because I rarely put sand on my sidewalk, rarely. And this year I absolutely have to,” said Ronald Boivin. “It’s shinier and slipperier than a skating rink.”
Watch above: Edmontonian Laura Buchkowsky used the icy streets to her advantage Saturday night, using them as a skating rink.
The City is asking homeowners to put sand on their walks as a temporary measure — because, just like with snow — those who don’t clear the ice within 48 hours of a storm could risk getting a ticket.
But it seems to be easier said than done.
Boivin apparently spent an hour driving to different community leagues in search of sand, only to find the boxes were already cleaned out.
“One of the hilarious places was actually Magrath — it was so icy you couldn’t get to the box without falling,” he said, pointing out the irony.
The head of Edmonton’s Roadways Maintenance knows about the shortage, and promises the City is working on getting the community sandboxes re-stocked.
“It’s amazing how quickly it all disappeared,” Bob Dunford said. “But it’s only one alternative, other people choose to buy bags of sand or buy de-icer and put it down themselves. It’s whatever you can do to keep your walk clear and safe.”
Watch above: Roads in Iceland come equipped with heated sidewalks to aid pedestrian traffic – could it work in Canada?
If you are using a de-icer like salt, which can be hard on concrete, Dunford says it’s a good idea to flush your driveway and sidewalk once winter’s over to keep them in good shape.
The city website has more tips on making your sidewalk clearing easier, as well as information on filing a complaint.
According to bylaw official Ryan Pleckaitis, 195 tickets have been issued since November to homeowners who haven’t cleared their walks.
With files from Fletcher Kent, Global News
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