University of Wyoming Operations has issued recommendations to ensure the safety and security of all buildings during extended closures or anticipated periods of extremely cold weather.

The ministry encourages building occupants to participate in the following measures:

— Make sure all windows and doors are completely closed and locked.

– Check sinks and toilets on exterior walls and open cabinet doors under sinks.

— Report any unusually cold areas.

— Report any wet ceiling tiles.

— Report any doors or windows that you cannot close and secure.

— Watch for icy areas and use extreme caution when walking and driving.

The Office of Risk Management encourages everyone to read these property loss reduction tips: www.uwyo.edu/risk/_files/docs/propertylossreduction.pdf.

How UW Operations Protects Campus:

UW Operations has processes to remove snow and ice from 14 miles of sidewalks and 80 miles of parking lanes, with priority given to ADA parking and trails. For added reliability, there is an 80-ton heated sand storage unit on campus. Last winter, UW Operations used 40 tons of sand and 15 tons of ice slicer. This does not include buckets of melted ice/sand placed at the doors of the main building.

Tips to protect yourself:

Proper footwear and precautions when walking can minimize the risk of an ice-related fall. Lean slightly and walk flat, with your weight directly on your feet as much as possible. Look ahead as you walk and extend your arms out to the sides to maintain balance. Wear warm gloves to keep your hands out of your pockets. In cold weather, assume that all wet, dark areas of sidewalks are slippery and icy. Dew or water vapor can freeze on cold surfaces, forming a very thin, almost invisible layer of ice that can look like a wet spot on the roadway. Approach these places with caution.

Check road conditions when traveling: https://wyoroad.info/. Sign up for UW SMS alerts here.

Don’t rush. Plan accordingly and give yourself enough time to get where you want to go.

How you can help: Everyone is encouraged to discuss these and other safety concerns at meetings and gatherings.

Be sure to report any issues or concerns to the UW Operations Help Desk by calling (307) 766-6225 (24-hour dispatch) or emailing [email protected].