SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CA — The recent snowstorm that blanketed the area has created challenges in communities throughout South Lake Tahoe, and neighboring areas. The Postal Service is asking for the public’s help in keeping sidewalks, pathways, approaches to and egress from mailboxes free of snow and ice so postal letter carriers can safely deliver the mail.

Mounds of snow and patches of ice in front of mailboxes create havoc for carriers trying to safely deliver the mail. Residents maintaining a clear path to the mailbox — including steps, porches, walkways, and street approach — will help postal carriers maintain consistent delivery service. Customers receiving curbside delivery should also ensure clear access to their mailboxes for letter carriers who deliver from the street.

Postal employees make every reasonable effort to deliver mail in many difficult weather conditions. However, delivery service may be delayed or curtailed whenever streets or walkways present hazardous conditions for letter carriers or when snow is plowed against mailboxes. The U. S. Postal Service curtails delivery only after careful consideration, and only as a last resort. If mail is curtailed, delivery is attempted the next delivery day.

Your help in this regard is deeply appreciated by your letter carrier and all the many men and women who work together to make sure you receive the best possible mail delivery.

Here are a few ways to help keep your carrier safe:

• 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 or 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.

• Leave a light on, if possible, to illuminate walkways and porches.

• Add a street address to mailboxes so they’re easier for carriers to find.

Customers can also come to the post office and retrieve their mail. We encourage customers to bring proper photo identification for mail pick up.

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