Action Line: Too little action to keep icy roads and sidewalks safe
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- COMPLAINT:
I am currently concerned about the conditions of the roads on base. I understand that many CE members may currently be deployed getting things taken care of right away may be impossible, but I have witnessed many cars sliding through roundabouts, stop signs and out into the streets from parking lots. I know we should all take caution when driving, but when you are going 5 mph and you still are sliding-- there is a problem. I am
concerned that someone could get seriously hurt or even worse--killed. I'm especially nervous for the pregnant women on base and the children as well, they can easily fall and hurt themselves very badly. Can we please get something done to help clear some of the ice and snow off the roads, parking lots and sidewalks?
RESPONSE:
Thank you for expressing your concerns regarding icy roads and sidewalks.
This winter was atypical for England as we experienced the coldest temperatures and most snowfall in at least 20 years. This extreme weather made for dangerous and icy conditions. I also appreciate your understanding that we have several members of our Civil Engineer Squadron currently deployed.
However, when it comes to snow and ice removal, the primary focus for our Civil Engineers is the flightline. Our Civil Engineers use their limited fleet of three plows and two brooms to clear snow and ice as well as sprayers to apply anti-ice to the runway and taxiways. This is a full-time job and the primary mission focus of our Civil Engineers during ice and snow conditions.
Although we do not plow base streets or parking lots, we do have contractor maintenance apply grit where and when needed to streets, roundabouts and intersections. Sweeps are provided routinely during poor road conditions to determine what areas require treatment. Regarding sidewalks and parking lots, the area up to 75 feet from the facility is the responsibility of the facility custodian and the home owner. The Civil Engineer Squadron provides salt and grit to each facility custodian and resident. Shovels and brooms are also available for use if facility custodians don't have those resources.
As of the time of this response, the weather has improved and streets, sidewalks and parking lots are back in good condition. England offers some cold winters, but the type of weather we experienced in late December and early January was much more severe than normal. Just like our local communities, we rely on the weather to help us maintain decent road conditions. When the weather doesn't cooperate, we experience the extreme
icy conditions we had for a few weeks in December and January-such extreme conditions make it nearly impossible to keep roads safe and clear. In those instances, we all must be extra cautious as we make our way around the installation.
*******************************************
The Action Line is your direct link to the commander for complaints, suggestions or comments. It's not intended to replace the chain of command. When normal command agency channels haven't been able to resolve your concerns, call 226-2324, e-mail Action.Line@lakenheath.af.mil , send through distribution (48 FW/PA), mail (48FW/PA, Unit 5210 Box 215 APO AE 09461-0215) or hand carry your Action Line to the public affairs office (Building 1063).
You may remain anonymous; however, to receive a reply, please leave your name, unit, duty or home phone number and full APO mailing address. Names are confidential.