Protecting Our Drivers This Winter

This winter has been relentless. Deep freezes. Heavy snow. Repeated storms. When weather like this hits, safe fuel delivery becomes a team effort.

Here’s what many homeowners don’t realize: a delivery doesn’t stop at the end of your driveway.

The truck has to get in, and get out, safely.

Our trucks are large, heavy vehicles that require space to maneuver. In most cases, drivers must back into driveways because there isn’t enough room to turn around if they pull in forward. Backing a truck of that size requires traction, visibility, and width.

Packed snow reduces grip. Ice increases stopping distance. Snowbanks narrow the usable driveway. If a driver cannot safely enter or exit your property, the delivery has to be delayed. It’s a safety decision, not a convenience one.

Before your scheduled delivery, make sure:

• The driveway is fully plowed from the road to the tank location
• Snowbanks are pushed back to allow proper width
• The surface is sanded or salted, especially on slopes
• There are no obstructions

The hose still has to reach your tank.

Once the truck is positioned, the job isn’t done. Drivers must pull a heavy fuel hose from the truck to your tank’s fill pipe. These hoses are substantial in weight and length. Dragging them across ice or deep snow creates a serious slip hazard. That’s why a clear walkway matters.

Please shovel and treat a path that:

• Runs from the driveway to the tank
• Is wide enough for stable footing
• Is free of ice buildup
• Leaves the fill pipe and tank fully visible

If the tank or fill pipe is buried, inaccessible, or surrounded by ice, delivery cannot be completed.

Why this matters

During severe weather, one unsafe property can disrupt an entire route. Clear access protects our drivers, prevents delays, and ensures your home stays supplied without interruption.

Winter is unpredictable. Preparation isn’t. A plowed driveway and a shoveled path make all the difference.

The Palisades Fuel Team thanks you for your efforts in keeping our drivers safe, and allowing us to keep you warm.