Snow & Ice Events
How the DPW Handles Snow and Ice Events
The Highway Division of the Department of Public Works (DPW) follows a structured process to manage snow and ice events efficiently. Here’s what happens during a typical weather event:
Preparing for the Storm
- Weather Monitoring: We rely on several weather reports, including our site-specific forecast, to create an action plan.
- Anti-Icing Operations: About 1-2 hours before a storm is expected, we pretreat main streets and major feeder roads with anti-icing materials.
- Road Patrols: Two trucks continuously monitor road conditions to stay ahead of changing weather.
During Snow Storm Event
- Salting: If freezing conditions are likely, we begin full-scale salting to prevent ice buildup.
- Plowing: When snowfall is predicted to exceed 2 inches, plowing operations begin.
Snow Removal Priorities
- Emergency Travel: Clearing roads for fire, emergency medical, and police personnel is our highest priority to ensure critical services can respond quickly.
- School Routes and Traffic Flow: Next, we focus on roads near schools and major routes to keep traffic moving in and out of Hamilton efficiently.
Around-the-Clock Commitment
- Main Routes & Feeder Roads: We aim to maintain a clear driving track on both sides of the centerline.
- Secondary Streets: Cleared within 6 hours of the snowfall ending.
- Residential Side Streets: Cleared within 8 hours of the snowfall ending.
Snow Emergency Declarations
When a major snowstorm is expected, the Town Manager may declare a Snow Emergency to help ensure public safety and efficient snow removal. The decision to declare a Snow Emergency takes into account several factors, including:
- Predicted storm size
- Current snow accumulation
- Time of day
- Day of the week
Notifications – Once a Snow Emergency is declared, the information is shared through:
- Local television stations
- Radio stations
- Mobile alerts
- Town website
- Police Department social media page.
Parking Ban in a Snow Emergency – To ensure safe streets, a winter storm parking ban will be in effect on all Town streets during a declared weather emergency.
- When It’s Declared: A parking ban is typically issued when 4 or more inches of snow are predicted. (Town gives 4 hours’ notice before enforcement begins – sign up for mobile alerts.)
- No Parking on Streets: During the ban, no vehicles may park on any Town streets. Exceptions are made only for emergency vehicles, public safety vehicles, and utility repair vehicles.
- Keep Roads Clear: Vehicles must not block or interfere with snow removal or sanding operations.
Post Storm Safety
- Keep Roads Clear: Avoid parking on streets so plows can finish clearing the roads efficiently. Do NOT place snow from your property into the street.
- Clear Snow from Sidewalks – Hamilton has a snow and ice ordinance that requires property owners to clear snow and ice from sidewalks within 24-hours of a snow event.
- Watch Out for Kids – Be mindful of children climbing on snowbanks, sledding or playing near streets.
- Lend a Hand: If you can, help dig out fire hydrants and storm drains in your neighborhood.
- Stay Safe Around Power Lines: Treat all downed wires as live and report them to authorities immediately. Hamilton/Wenham Emergency Communication Center at 911.
- Check on Neighbors: Reach out to neighbors, especially those who may need extra assistance.
- Exhaust Pipes: Clear snow away before starting your car to avoid dangerous exhaust fumes.
- Generators: Always use generators outdoors and in well-ventilated areas.
- Shoveling Pace yourself to avoid overexertion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. If my street is not plowed in a timely fashion, where should I call for help?
A. Call the Hamilton/Wenham Emergency Communication Center at 978-468-4421.
Q. Will my trash still be picked up?
A. Trash collection is not suspended due to a storm. Contact Casella Waste Disposal with questions at 978-548-4427.
Q. Who do I contact if my mailbox was damaged by a snow plow?
A. Please refer to the Town’s Mailbox Installation and Replacement Policy.
