Before we get to the tips, let’s recognize our delivery drivers for their safety record and tireless coverage during the worst of winter. This is not an easy job. They are out there every day transporting fuels which requires physical strength, technical knowledge, excellent driving skills, and keen safety awareness.
When you throw in wintry weather conditions, deliveries can become treacherous. Deep snow can make hauling the hose backbreaking work. Ice can lead to slips. And driving? Our trucks are heavy and filled with fuel. Our drivers must be extra vigilant on the road and on your driveway.
This is why we have these TOP 3 TIPS:
- Clear your driveway of snow and ice. Sand and salt as needed. Make sure your driveway is cleared wide enough. Our delivery vehicles need a 9-foot to 10-foot-wide driveway and snow stakes are always appreciated as well. Please remember by law, we cannot make a delivery if it’s not safe to do so.
- Clear a path to your tank – Please remove snow, ice, and any obstacles that block the route to your heating oil fill pipe or propane tank. It also helps to mark the location of your propane tank’s fill valve with a flag tall enough to rise above fallen or drifting snow.
- If you are on Facebook, be sure to enter our annual Shovel-to-Win contest where your name will be added to our drawing every time we make a delivery and your path to your fill pipe is cleared.
- Go here to earn an extra entry for posting a photo of your path: https://www.facebook.com/sdpetroleum
- Plan ahead – If you are a “will-call” customer it’s best to place your order when your heating oil or propane level reaches no lower than the 1/4 mark – preferably before this, especially when temperatures are frigid. Doing this will give us enough notice to schedule your delivery. Or, sign up for Automatic Delivery and gain peace of mind at no extra cost.
So far, this winter has been manageable, but you never know what the second half of the heating season will bring! Some of the biggest snowstorms have come in February or March, and ice is can be a hazard into April. With storms in the works, we thank you in advance for your efforts to plan ahead and prepare for your next delivery. It makes a real difference in our ability to deliver your fuel to you in a timely and safe manner.