Salem Sidewalks Becomes Dangerous From Unattended Sprinklers

It is just one of many considerations as colder than usual conditions raise safety concerns.

Public Works officials say conditions are dangerous enough without sprinklers being left on. Photo by Bonnie King

(SALEM, Ore.) - The City of Salem has received several complaints of icy sidewalks due to sprinkler systems still being on during cold winter nights. This can result in serious hazards for school children and other pedestrians trying to use city sidewalks.

Mike Gotterba with Salem Public Works says citizens are reminded to turn off their automatic sprinkler systems during winter months to prevent that dangerous formation of ice on sidewalks and streets.

"It is also a good idea to drain sprinkler systems to prevent damage from freezing pipes," he added.

"This will help ensure that sprinkler systems are ready to go in the spring when the new growing season begins."

Gotterba says this is just one of many considerations local residents are dealing with in terms of the recent cold snap. A Gresham woman died overnight in a fire that was started by a space heater being place to combustible material. It is a reminder that everyone needs to raise their alert levels when it comes to safety.