Announcements

If you have any concerns or questions about any disruption or shutdown notices, please contact the Facilities Management Service Desk at 613-727-4723 ext. 7710 Monday to Friday, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or via email at 7710@algonquincollege.com

Winter is here! How to stay safe on campus this season

Safety is our top priority. The Facilities Department works diligently with our Snow and Ice Management contractor to help ensure the safety and accessibility of campus roads, walkways, and entrances for all members of the College community.

If you notice icy patches, snow drifts, or any conditions that may impede accessibility or pose a safety risk, please contact the Service Desk at extension 7710. We are here to help.

Gravel Parking Lots – Why are they so different than other parking lots in the winter?

The Ottawa campus is home to three gravel parking lots: Lot 1’s extension, Lot 16, and Lot 17. The College uses grit in these spaces for traction instead of salt, as gravel areas respond negatively to salt use for snow and ice treatment. Salt is avoided in gravel parking lots because it would create unsafe conditions. As we are not able to melt ice with salt, expect to see hard-packed snow and ice in these areas. Even though these spaces will be treated and inspected regularly, please use extra caution when traversing them, as icy conditions are expected throughout the winter.

Black Ice – How to identify it and how can I stay safe?

Black ice is a transparent layer of ice that is barely visible on hard surfaces, making it extremely difficult to see and manage.

Here are a few tips to help you recognize and respond to black ice:

  • Keep an eye out for surfaces that appear wet or shiny, and take care as you begin to traverse them.
  • Start by testing the edge with your foot and feel for friction. If the surface seems slippery, it is likely black ice. It is best to find an alternate route or take extreme care while traversing it (see the walking and footwear tips below).
  • Try walking on the snow adjacent to the sidewalk if black ice is present; this often provides more traction and is safer.
  • Pay attention to temperature fluctuations. Cold temperatures can freeze melted snow into black ice.
Photo of black ice

Follow these tips to navigate winter weather safely, especially when facing icy surfaces:

Awareness is Key
While walking through parking lots or on sidewalks, keep your phone in your pocket so you can remain aware of the path in front of you as you make your way into buildings. Temperatures can change numerous times throughout the day, so stay alert for icy conditions. Be extra cautious and follow the tips below during the winter.

Footwear Matters
Invest in insulated, waterproof boots with a robust tread. Choose footwear that provides excellent traction to help prevent slipping on icy walkways. Avoid smooth-soled shoes, as they increase the risk of accidents.

Walking Techniques
When venturing out on icy surfaces, adopt a cautious walking style to maintain stability:

  • Take smaller steps: Short, deliberate steps help maintain balance on slippery surfaces.
  • Slow down: Reduce your walking pace to avoid sudden slips and falls.
  • Bend your knees: Slightly bending your knees lowers your center of gravity, adding stability.
  • Take wider steps: Distribute your weight evenly by taking wider steps to reduce the risk of slipping.

Embrace the “Penguin Walk”
Channel your inner penguin by pointing your feet slightly outward and shuffling along. This walking technique, although amusing, enhances stability on icy terrain.

Community Safety Begins with You
This winter, let’s work together to create a safe and secure College environment. By following these simple guidelines, you can navigate winter with confidence.

Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of winter responsibly.

This winter safety advisory is brought to you by Facilities Management, dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable, and sustainable learning environment for the College community.

Important Reminder: Preventing Pests During the Winter & Holiday Break

As we approach the Holiday break – a period when offices will be unoccupied for extended periods – it is especially important that we take proactive steps to prevent pest activity, particularly rodents.

Rodents use scent to locate food, and even products that may not appear to pose a risk, such as tea bags, coffee pods, canned beverages, and packaged snacks, release aromas that can attract them into offices and kitchens.

Please note that pest control treatments are only effective when food sources are eliminated. Any food left behind can compete with treatment efforts, significantly reducing their effectiveness and potentially delaying or preventing successful pest control.

To support these efforts, we ask all staff to follow the preventative measures below diligently:

  • Remove food daily: Take all food items home at the end of each day. Any food or beverages kept on-site must be stored in properly sealed, rigid containers (preferably glass).
  • Be mindful of hidden food sources: Items such as tea bags, coffee pods, and packaged snacks (e.g., granola bars, chocolate, candies) can attract pests due to their odor.
  • Clean promptly: Wash dishes, mugs, and cutlery immediately after use. Please avoid leaving dirty items in sinks or on counters overnight.
  • Maintain clean surfaces: Keep kitchen counters, desks, and shared surfaces free of crumbs and spills at all times. Please remember that the cleanliness of high and shared surfaces in kitchen areas is a shared responsibility.
  • Potted plants: If rodent activity is suspected, potted plants should be temporarily removed, as they may attract pests seeking water or nesting materials.

Your cooperation is essential to maintaining a clean, safe, and pest-free environment for everyone, especially during periods of reduced occupancy.

If you would like to discuss these or other preventative measures further, please feel free to connect with Patricia Thome at thomep@algonquincillege.com.

Thank you for your attention and support.