NEW JERSEY — The U.S. Postal Service is urging residents across New Jersey to keep walkways and approaches to mailboxes clear of snow and ice to help letter carriers deliver mail safely and on time.
Postal officials said snowbanks and icy patches in front of mailboxes can make routine deliveries hazardous. They asked customers to maintain a clear path to the mailbox — including steps, porches, sidewalks, walkways and the street approach — and for curbside delivery, to ensure carriers can reach boxes from the roadway.
The Postal Service said carriers make every reasonable effort to deliver mail during difficult weather, but safety is the priority. Carriers are not allowed to attempt door delivery when sidewalks, steps or porches have heavy snow or ice buildup, and they are not allowed to leave their vehicles to reach curbside boxes blocked by snow and ice, the agency said.
If a mailbox is inaccessible or a delivery location is too hazardous, carriers are instructed not to deliver until it is safe, postal officials said.
The Postal Service said it appreciates residents’ help in keeping delivery routes accessible during winter weather.
