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Break out the tire socks!
Wintery weather is due in Metro Vancouver this week, and TransLink says they are ready to take it on.
The transit agency took some heat last winter during Vancouver's atypical series of snow days when trains and buses across the region struggled in the snowy, icy conditions.
In a statement, TransLink says they "are closely monitoring the weather and preparing under our snow/adverse weather plans," after Environment Canada issued a weather warning Monday calling for snow flurries in the region Tuesday.
TransLink breaks down what they're busy with in preparation for the cold wet stuff that wrecks havoc:
- Trolley wire de-icing trucks are prepared, and ready to apply de-icer to the 300-km trolley wire system in Vancouver if temperatures drop.
- The de-icer SkyTrain is being prepared, ready to protect the power rail from ice build-up.Salt bins (23 in total) have been installed at bus loops and exchanges, to ensure quick access to salt to address icy conditions.
- “Slippery condition” caution signs installed at all loops and exchanges
- Preparing to call in extra staff (Transit Supervisors, SkyTrain Attendants and Transit Security).
TransLink is also reminding customers to wear proper footwear and clothing for the weather, and to pack some patience; "expect occasional service disruptions throughout the day," urges the agency.
Here are a couple of explainer vids TransLink made about tire socks and the SkyTrain de-icer.
