In advance of forecasted winter storms this weekend, Postal officials are asking for the public’s cooperation in keeping mailboxes, steps, and sidewalks clear of snow and ice so letter carriers are able to provide the safest, most efficient delivery service possible.
The Postal Service’s Ohio Valley District officials are making a concerted effort to raise public awareness of the importance of keeping walkways, sidewalks, and approaches to mailboxes clear from snow and ice in the interest of neighborhood safety. In addition to enabling letter carriers to provide safe and timely mail delivery, clear paths also are much safer for family members and neighbors traveling to school, going to work, and shopping at nearby businesses.
The Postal Service is asking customers to help keep their letter carrier safe this winter through the following actions:
-Clear enough snow from curbside boxes to allow mail trucks to approach the box, deliver the mail and to drive away from the box without danger of the need for backing.
-Walkways should be cleared of snow and ice and allow enough traction to avoid slips, trips or falls.
-Steps should also be kept clear of ice and snow and in good repair so as not to cause injury to the letter carriers or others who visit the customer’s home.
-Overhangs should be clear and free of snow and ice to avoid injury.
Residents who receive delivery to roadside mailboxes also must keep the approach to, and exit from, the mailbox clear of snow or any other obstacles, like trash cans and other vehicles. The carrier needs to get in, and then out, without leaving the vehicle or backing up.
Customers with questions or comments about their mail service can call toll-free 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) or send an e-mail to the Postal Service by clicking on Customer Service at the bottom of the Postal Service’s USPS.com homepage.
