2008 Woodie Awards
Steps to Help Ease Winter at UC
Gregg Sponburgh
Issue date: 12/1/05 Section: Opinion
 Media Credit: Michelle Miller UC winters |
Predictions vary on exactly how cold and snowy this winter will be in upstate New York, but you can bet your bottom dollar that we will have some snow.
When the weather starts acting up, remember to slow down - take your time behind the wheel and you will arrive to your destination safely, no matter where you are traveling.
"It's easy to forget just how difficult traveling in winter weather can be," Gregg Sponburgh, director of environmental health and safety said. "Employees and students need to plan ahead and take extra time while traveling to campus, and take the same amount of care while on campus."
On Campus
* Grounds personnel do their best to keep roads and walkways clear, even when the rate of accumulation increases. With this in mind, please take extra precautions and be sure to wear the appropriate footwear for weather conditions. "Approximately 85 percent of accidents on campus are due to slips and falls and inappropriate footwear is the main cause," Sponburgh notes.
* Be mindful of water accumulation on the floors inside buildings. Additional mats have been placed near entrances and exits, and the mats are checked routinely for excessive water. If you notice any potentially hazardous conditions, please contact the Office of Facilities Management at 792-3191.
Cancellations and Delays
The decision to cancel classes is usually made by 6 a.m. By this time, the state police and surrounding departments of public works have been contacted to determine the status of road conditions. Campus safety and facilities personnel are also monitoring conditions on campus.
Decisions to cancel due to road conditions are based on a 30- to 40-mile radius, Sponburgh says. Those living outside this area should use their judgment if road conditions are more treacherous. Consult with your supervisor or instructor prior to these times of bad weather for their perspective and guidance.
* Information about cancellations, closings, or delays can be obtained by calling the College's switchboard at 792-3111, the official site for such information. Sponburgh says it's a good idea to call the switchboard to determine if there are any changes in schedule.
* During the workday, cancellation or closing announcements will be sent out via campus voice mail as soon as a decision is made. Normal mail and courier runs will be cancelled immediately. Please contact the campus safety, facilities management, and switchboard offices only in the case of an emergency. The College switchboard (792-3111) will also have a message on the status of classes and any athletics events.