Winter Weather Preparedness

Salting Smarter in Monroe

Cold temperatures, ice, and occasional snow are common during winter weather in Monroe. Salt and ice melt can help improve safety on roads, sidewalks, and driveways, but using more salt than necessary can harm local waterways. A little bit goes a long way, and small changes in how salt is applied can make a meaningful difference for both safety and the environment.

How the City of Monroe approaches winter treatment

The City of Monroe takes a targeted approach to winter maintenance. City crews closely monitor weather conditions and pavement temperatures to determine when and where treatment is most effective.

1. Streets crews apply salt, brine, or deicer to City-maintained streets and bridges when forecasts indicate icy or freezing conditions
2. Equipment is prepared and used to apply materials at appropriate rates to maximize effectiveness while limiting excess use
3. Treatments are timed based on weather conditions to help prevent ice from bonding to pavement when possible and to avoid treatments being washed away by rainfall before winter weather arrives.

This approach helps keep roads safer while reducing unnecessary material use and environmental impacts.

Why salting smarter matters

When snow and ice melt, leftover salt does not disappear. It can wash into storm drains, which flow directly into nearby creeks and streams. 

Using less salt, applying it at the right time, and cleaning up excess material helps protect Monroe’s waterways while still improving traction and safety.

Best practices for residents and businesses

Before icing conditions

1. Watch the forecast and wait to treat surfaces until freezing conditions are expected
2. Avoid applying salt during before or during rain, as it can wash away before it has time to work

Before applying salt

1. Shovel or break up snow and ice first. Removing as much accumulation as possible may reduce or eliminate the need for salt
2. Check temperatures. Salt becomes less effective at very low temperatures. In extremely cold conditions, sand may be used for traction, though it does not melt ice and should be cleaned up later

When applying salt

1. Use less than you think. A small amount spread evenly is more effective than heavy application
2. Target only slick or high-traffic areas such as steps, slopes, and shaded walkways
3. Be patient. Salt takes time to work. Applying more does not speed up melting

After ice melts

1. Sweep up leftover salt to prevent it from washing into storm drains
2. Store unused salt for future winter weather events

For more information on water quality protection and stormwater stewardship, visit the City of Monroe’s Stormwater resources page.

During Winter Storms and Extreme Cold

Winter weather conditions can change quickly. During a storm, safety and clear communication are the top priorities for both the City and the community.

What the City of Monroe Does

During winter weather events, the City actively responds to conditions to protect public safety and maintain essential services:

• Monitors weather conditions, road conditions, and utility systems in real time
• Deploys Streets and Public Works crews to treat roads with salt, brine, or deicer as conditions allow, prioritizing major routes, bridges, and critical access points
• Responds to fallen trees, dangerous limbs, and debris that block roads or threaten infrastructure
• Coordinates emergency response, utility restoration, and facility operations as conditions evolve
• Shares updates related to City services, facilities, and safety information through official City communication channels

What You Can Do

Residents and business owners should take precautions during winter storms and periods of extreme cold:

• Stay indoors and limit travel whenever possible
• Walk carefully on icy sidewalks and surfaces
• Dress in warm layers, wear a hat, and protect exposed skin when outdoors
• Watch for signs of frostbite, such as numbness or pale skin on fingers, toes, ears, or nose
• Watch for signs of hypothermia, including uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech, or extreme fatigue, and seek medical help if symptoms appear
• Use heating sources safely and ensure proper ventilation for fuel-burning equipment
• Never use grills, camp stoves, or outdoor heating equipment indoors
• Conserve heat during outages by closing off unused rooms and using blankets and layered clothing
• If pipes freeze, slowly warm them and open faucets to relieve pressure

Driving During Winter Weather

• Avoid driving unless it is absolutely necessary
• Reduce speed and increase following distance
• Use extra caution on bridges and overpasses, which freeze first
• If your vehicle begins to slide, ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction of the slide

If You Become Stranded in a Vehicle

• Call 911 and alert them to your situation and location
• Stay inside your vehicle and remain calm
• Use hazard lights and make your vehicle visible to responders
• Run the engine only as needed for warmth, keeping the exhaust pipe clear and a window slightly open
• Conserve battery power while maintaining communication and visibility