Plainwell Newsletter, January

Cheers to 2025!

January News & Updates

Important Dates:

January 1 - New Year's Day City Offices Closed

January 6 - Bagged Leaves & Brush Pickup and Christmas Tree Pickup

January 20 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day

All public meetings and events can be found on the City Calendar

Remember to shop small, shop local, shop Plainwell

Stay in the Loop!

Live Christmas Tree Pickup - Monday, Jan. 6

If you use a live tree for Christmas, please remember to remove all lighting and decoration before placing it on the curb for the January 6, 2025

pick up or we will not be able to take it.

*Please make sure all decorations, tinsel and lights have been removed prior to placing curbside.

Winter Parking Reminder

Parking on any street is prohibited 2

a.m. – 5 a.m., from Nov. 1st to March 31st

and enforced all year in the central business

district. Overnight parking in downtown lots

is by permit and in designated areas only.

This makes it much easier for the City crew

to plow snow and sweep.

Winter Time is Snow Time

Please do not plow snow into or across a street,

please keep it on the lot it falls upon, hard packed

snow in the street could spin a vehicle out of control, potentially injuring someone.

Businesses are required to remove snow

and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property.

Residents should remove snow and ice from sidewalks as well so as not to force pedestrians to use the street.

Preparation Before Driving

Check the Weather: Monitor weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out.
Inspect Your Vehicle:

Ensure your tires are winter-ready, with proper tread depth and pressure.
Check your battery, as cold weather can drain its charge faster.
Verify that your windshield wipers are in good condition and your washer fluid is full and rated for freezing temperatures.
Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid freezing fuel lines.

Pack an Emergency Kit: Include items such as a flashlight, blankets, gloves, water, non-perishable snacks, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, a phone charger, and a small shovel.

While Driving

Slow Down: Drive slower than usual, especially on icy or snowy roads.
Increase Following Distance: Maintain at least 6–8 seconds of distance from the vehicle ahead.
Use Smooth Movements: Accelerate, brake, and steer gently to maintain control.
Avoid Cruise Control: It can cause your vehicle to lose traction on slippery surfaces.
Know How to Handle Skids:

If you start to skid, steer gently in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming on the brakes.
For front-wheel skids, ease off the gas and gently steer.
For rear-wheel skids, ease off the gas and turn into the skid until you regain control.

Additional Tips

Watch for Black Ice: This is a thin, transparent layer of ice that blends with the road, often found on bridges and shaded areas.
Beware of Snow Plows: Stay at least 200 feet behind snowplows, and do not pass them unless absolutely necessary.
Keep Windows Clear: Regularly remove ice and snow from all windows, mirrors, lights, and your roof to improve visibility.
Plan for Extra Time: Winter driving takes longer; give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.

By staying cautious and prepared, you can significantly reduce the risks of winter driving in Michigan. Stay safe!

City of Plainwell | plainwell.org