There has been a lot of ice buildup on roadways and sidewalks in the Battlefords today, making for some slippery conditions. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Martin Martinson

Icy roadways

Battlefords experiencing slick road conditions

Jan 13, 2021 | 1:53 PM

It was a slick and slippery start to the day in the Battlefords Wednesday, as many residents found themselves having to exercise additional caution on their daily work commute.

With a winter storm warning for the area projected for the day, much of the ice build-up came about overnight, coating large sections of the sidewalk and street area throughout the downtown and community limits.

“It’s so slippery out here, there’s ice all over the sidewalks,” said one resident, carefully shuffling their feet down 102^nd Street. “You’ve got to really watch where you’re going.”

Communications administrator with the City of North Battleford Dustin MacDonald, said trucks have been out sanding and salting the road since 8:30 a.m., and have completed the main streets. Drivers are currently working on secondary and side-streets.

“They’re doing the best they can, but we’re also asking motorists to drive with care, as it is still slippery, and especially around intersections,” MacDonald said. “We all need to be especially cognizant of pedestrians right now too, as they cannot move as quickly either, due to the conditions.”

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In addition to the city’s efforts to combat the ice, several businesses around the downtown area have also been active in getting out to sprinkle salt and other ice-decomposing materials to mitigate the effects of slippery sidewalks.

Staff Sgt. with the Battlefords RCMP, Jason Teniuk, said although things do seem to be getting a bit better throughout the early part of the afternoon, it remains as important as ever to be cautious, both driving and walking, as the day progresses.

“Conditions seem to be slightly improving as far as I can tell from earlier this morning, but that could get worse again [as the day progresses],” Teniuk said. “That said, we’re definitely recommending residents stay home as much as they can, until it warms up a bit and we can get traffic moving again up to normal speed.”

Teniuk added for those who do still need to be out and about on the road today, leaving earlier than normal to allow for a slower drive is of paramount importance.

“[Essentially] all the accidents we’re seeing going on today are based on people traveling too fast,” he said. “It’s still probably best if you can just stay off the roads, but If you have a decent set of winter tires, and you’re traveling below the posted speed limit, I think you’ll be OK.”

Loraas Environmental Services are currently monitoring the conditions in the community, with the possibility of adjusting their garbage and recycling pickup schedule if needed.

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Martin.Martinson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: MartyMartyPxP1