UW Operations Outlines Recommended Cold Weather Procedures

University of Wyoming Operations has issued recommendations to ensure safety and security in all buildings during lengthy closures or anticipated periods of extremely cold weather.

The department encourages building occupants to assist with the following measures:

-- Make sure all windows and doors are completely closed, with windows latched.

-- Check sinks and lavatories on exterior walls and open cabinet doors under sinks.

-- Report any unusually cold areas.

-- Report any wet ceiling tiles.

-- Report any doors or windows that you are unable to close and secure.

-- Watch for icy spots, and use extreme caution when walking and driving.

The Risk Management Office encourages everyone to read these property loss reduction tips: www.uwyo.edu/risk/_files/docs/propertylossreduction.pdf.

How UW Operations Protects Campus:

UW Operations has processes to remove snow and ice from 14 miles of sidewalks and 80 lane miles of parking lots, with priority on ADA parking and paths. For reliability, there is an 80-ton heated sand storage unit on campus. Last winter, UW Operations used 40 tons of sand and 15 tons of ice slicer. This does not include the buckets of ice melt/sand that is placed at main building doors.

Advice on Protecting Yourself:

Proper footwear and care in walking can minimize the potential of an ice-related fall. Bend slightly and walk flat-footed, with your weight directly over your feet as much as possible. Look ahead when you walk, and extend your arms out to your sides to maintain balance. Wear warm gloves so you can keep your hands out of your pockets. In cold temperatures, assume all wet, dark areas on pavements are slippery and icy. Dew or water vapor can freeze on cold surfaces, forming an extra-thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that can look like a wet spot on the pavement. Approach these spots with caution.

Check road conditions when traveling: https://wyoroad.info/. Sign up for UW text alerts here.

Do not rush. Plan accordingly, and give yourself enough time to get where you want to go.

How you can help: Everyone is encouraged to discuss these and other safety concerns at meetings and gatherings.

Be sure to report any issues or concerns to UW Operations service desk by calling (307) 766-6225 (24-dispatch) or emailing svsdesk@uwyo.edu.