Snow and ice on campus
The university takes winter safety on campus roads and walkways seriously. Facilities has a winter operations plan in place for November to March each year.
Snow and ice control on campus
The university strives to keep pathways, stairs and building entrances clear of snow and ice to keep the campus community safe during the winter months.
Snow and ice control crews focus on clearing primary areas, such as: wheel chair ramps, handicapped parking spots, building entrances, fire hydrants access points and fire exits. These areas are prioritized based on safety. Frequently used pathways and stairs, such as the walkway that begins at the bottom of the stairs at the LRT station, are also cleared as quickly as possible.
Please note that the stairs leading up to university station are cleared by Calgary Transit; snow removal requests can be directed to 3-1-1.
Crews do their best to clear snow and ice as quickly as possible, but you may find some areas are slippery as you make your way across campus. Stay safe by practicing safe winter walking and call Campus Security at 403-220-5333 to report any injuries.
Managing slippery conditions
The campus community can report snow-covered or icy sidewalks and roadways to Facilities by calling the Customer Care Centre at 403-220-7555, Monday through Friday, calling Campus Security after hours at 403-220-5333 or by submitting a service request online.
Once a request has been submitted to the Customer Care Centre, we prioritize it based on whether or not the problem will compromise safety or affect the operations of the university. We will respond to the priority issues as soon as possible.
- Avoid using short cuts and self-made paths as these may be very icy and slippery - stay on the cleared sidewalks, even if it means an extra minute or two.
- Wear appropriate winter footwear.
- Take small steps to keep your centre of balance under you.
- Walk slowly and never run on icy ground.
- Keep both hands free for balance, rather than in your pockets.
- Use handrails from start to finish.
- Avoid carrying loads on stairways; or carrying loads that obstruct your view.
- Keep your eyes on where you are going.
- Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them.
- Step - don't jump - from vehicles and equipment.
During the winter months we have staff and contractors working a variety of shifts through the week to respond to snow and ice control situations promptly. We strive to have primary areas cleared as quickly as possible, weather conditions permitting.
We begin with areas where snow and ice presents a safety hazard or impacts the university’s operations. For example, wheel chair ramps, handicapped parking spots, fire hydrants access points, fire exits, building entrances and high-traffic walkways.
After any amount of accumulation, snow removal equipment will be out. We plow parking lots at night only, so we have full access.