DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA — The Postal Service is reaching out to communities to raise public awareness on the importance of keeping walkways, sidewalks, and approaches to mailboxes clear from snow and ice so carriers can provide safe mail delivery.

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.

The Postal Service is issuing the following snow removal tips:

• Clear enough snow from curbside boxes to allow mail trucks to approach the box, deliver mail, and to drive away without the need for backing or departing the vehicle.
• Walkways should be cleared of snow and ice, allowing enough traction to avoid slips, trips or falls.
• Steps and handrails should be kept clear of ice and snow and in good repair to avoid injury to letter carriers or others.
• Overhangs should be free of snow and ice as well to reduce the risk of falling debris.

“Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds. These words are engraved on the front of the James A. Farley Post Office in New York City, set in stone by the firm that built it. The phrase is taken from an ancient book by the Greek historian Herodotus and refers to the messengers in the Persian Empire who operated a system of mounted postal couriers who service with great fidelity. Although the U.S. Postal Service has no official motto, this description is a tribute to the hundreds and thousands of men and women who have delivered the mail reliably and dependably, through all conditions for 250 years”, according to Postal Facts - U.S. Postal Service.

Customers with questions or comments about their mail service can contact the Postal Service at 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) or by clicking on Contact Us at the bottom of the Postal Service’s USPS.com homepage.

The Postal Service and postal letter carriers greatly appreciate your support

# # #