Winter Operations Reminders!

Whether you’re excited about it or not, winter is on its way to our area, and Georgian Bluffs is ready to roll out our 2026–2027 Winter Operations Plan. With plows fueled and resources stocked, we’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature sends our way. 

The Township maintains 877 lane kilometres of road and 12 km of sidewalks each winter, using nine plow routes and three sidewalk routes. Road plowing typically starts at 3 a.m. and road routes take about five hours to complete, followed by sidewalk plowing. While 24-hour plowing is not provided, staff work hard to ensure safe conditions after overnight snowfall. 

Here’s how you can help keep winter operations running smoothly: 

• Drive Safe, Arrive Safe 

See snow? Go slow. Drive with caution in winter conditions. Slow down, give yourself extra travel time, and make sure your tires are ready for winter. During significant weather events, avoid unnecessary travel and allow time for plows to complete their routes. 

Please leave plenty of space behind larger vehicles on the road, especially snowplows and graders.  These vehicles are often working in challenging conditions and may need to stop or change direction unexpectedly. Maintaining a safe following distance improves visibility and helps keep both motorists and equipment operators safe. 

• Park Smart 

Avoid roadside parking between November 15 and April 15. Parked vehicles create barriers for snowplows and can delay clearing efforts. Vehicles left on the road may be subject to fines or towing to allow plows to operate safely and effectively.
 

• Keep Driveways and Ditches Clear 

When clearing snow from your driveway, be sure not to push or blow snow onto the road or in culverts. Depositing snow in these areas can delay plow progress and create hazards, including flooding when snow melts. 

• Keep Hydrants Clear 

Where water hydrants are present, residents can play an important role in helping emergency responders. Clearing snow and ice around a nearby hydrant can save valuable time during an emergency and is a simple way to support community safety. 

• Place Waste Wisely 

When setting out waste carts for collection, place bins at the end of your driveway, not on the road or sidewalk. We recommend placing your bins on the far side of your driveway in the direction of travel (the right side of your lane if looking out toward the road).  This helps keep carts visible and accessible and reduces the amount of snow left around them by the plow. 

Proper placement helps plows clear roads without obstruction and protects your bins from being damaged or buried. 

• Be Prepared for Weather Events 

Winter storms can bring heavy snow, freezing rain, and icy roads. Stock your home with essentials like blankets, flashlights, batteries, medications, and non-perishable food to last 72 hours. Being prepared helps everyone stay safe. 

• Play Safe 

Snowbanks can be tempting play areas, but they’re unsafe for children. Avoid building forts or tunnels near roads or driveways, as plows can’t always see what’s behind the snow. 

• Stay Connected 

For updates on weather advisories, road conditions, or significant weather events, visit www.georgianbluffs.ca/Subscribe, follow the Township on social media, or get in touch through Contact GB. For after-hours emergencies, please contact the OPP. 

By working together and staying alert, we can all help make winter safer for everyone in Georgian Bluffs. Please help us in sharing this information with neighbours and friends as we head into another winter season, knowing that community efforts can make a big difference to safety, convenience and remaining connected throughout winter months. 

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For more information, please contact communications@georgianbluffs.ca.