Postal Service Reminds Customers to Keep Paths Cleared for Carrier and Public Safety

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Postal employees will make every reasonable effort to deliver the mail in the aftermath of Monday’s historic blizzard. At the same time, we must ensure the safety of our carriers along their routes.

The Postal Service is reaching out to communities throughout the region to raise public awareness of the importance of keeping walkways, sidewalks, and approaches to mailboxes clear from snow and ice so letter carriers can resume safe and timely mail delivery.

Mounds of snow and patches of ice in front of mailboxes create havoc for carriers trying to safely deliver the mail.

Customers receiving curbside delivery should also ensure clear access to their mailboxes for letter carriers from the street.

Any amount of snow can cause a dangerous situation for mail carriers and others. Keeping a clear path to and around mailboxes will help mail carriers continue consistent delivery as well as keep them safe from potential slipping and/or injuries.

Postal officials are asking for the public’s cooperation in keeping the mailboxes, steps, and sidewalks clear of snow and ice with the following tips:

  • 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 email to the Postal Service by clicking on Customer Service at the bottom of the Postal Service’s USPS.com homepage.