Snow Removal & Winter Weather Tips

Kansas winters are unpredictable, and can sometimes bring ice and snow! During the fall and winter months, it's a good time to remind employees how we handle snow removal on KU Medical Center campuses. Snow removal and ice control for the campus is performed by the KUMC Landscape Services. From November through late March, personnel monitor weather conditions 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will respond to emergent weather events with a variety of equipment and personnel.

All winter precipitation events are considered to be a form of a weather emergency. Whether it's freezing drizzle or a major snowstorm, appropriate crews are on site responding to conditions. Proper and timely response to winter weather conditions is paramount to the safe and normal operations of the University and Hospital, and public safety is always the primary concern.

With the exception of the Emergency Room drive and the entrances to patient care facilities, all locations are treated equitably. However, in order to perform an efficient and safe order of snow removal, priorities are established as conditions change. For example, temperatures can fluctuate widely between night and day, permitting a refreeze. Also, it may not be possible to completely plow all parking areas until cars have departed at the end of the work day. Please keep in mind that timing and duration of the event will determine the priorities of campus snow removal and every storm is a little different. But know that we are diligently working to clear off all campus paths.

Snow removal is an extremely labor intensive operation, so please exercise patience. Contact numbers for KUMC snow removal operations are 588-5188 or 588-5030.

Want to know how to be notified of closings or delayed starts? Click HERE!

TIPS FOR A SAFE WINTER

SLIPS/TRIPS/FALLS - WALK SAFE! Winter months bring snow, ice, and slippery walkways. Always be careful when walking outdoors. Keep your eye out for icy spots on walkways and report any problem areas to the KUMC Landscape Department. Remember, during periods after a snow or ice event, it is not always possible to completely clear all walkways; therefore, extra care must be exercised during these times. Wear appropriate footwear for winter walking, such as shoes and boots in good condition with adequate tread. Slow down and walk in the clearest path available. Ice Melt is provided in certain entrances of KUMC buildings to be utilized for outside entrances and walks. Prior to entering buildings, knock off as much snow remaining on your shoes as possible, this will limit the amount of water being tracked into buildings making interior walkways safer! 

SHOVELING - Be cautious when shoveling at home. See http://www.ext.nodak.edu/snow.htm for some good advice.

WINTER DRIVING SAFETY - Remember to slow down and expand the distance between your car and other vehicles. Concentrate, maintain awareness, have patience, and allow extra time when driving this winter. Have emergency supplies in your car and prepare your car mechanically for winter. See http://www.kansashighwaypatrol.org/press/2012/2012-66.html for additional winter weather driving reminders.

*For additional winter tips to keep you prepared, check out the helpful links below!

• Winter tips courtesy of FEMA
• Warm up with weather wisdom from the CDC
• Make your own car survival kit with a little help from the Kansas DOT
• Don't forget to sign up on RAVE to receive campus winter emergency-related incidents via text!