Neat to Know: December 12 2023

Thanks for reading Neat to Know - a feature from the City of Medicine Hat to ensure you don't miss important info and some that is really, well...neat to know!

You can expect to see this feature regularly as we round up the week's most interesting content and even some that may not have been delivered through our regular channels. 

2024 Saamis Tepee Upgrades

Work to upgrade and repaint parts of the Saamis Tepee will begin early April 2024 and is expected to take several weeks, with an anticipated completion at the end of October, weather permitting. During this period, the Tepee will not be available for the 'Lighting for a Cause' program. 

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Congrats on 40 years, Ernie!

This week, we celebrated one of our Transit Operators, Ernie, who reached 40 years of service with the City of Medicine Hat. Ernie is known for his friendly, easy-going attitude and his bright smile. We are lucky to have him!

Transit Updates

Starting January 4, the following changes to Routes 21 and 56 will be implemented:

• Route 21: will expand its service to include weekday evenings and Sundays. The New hours will be:
  • Weekdays: 6:45 a.m. to 10:45 p.m.
  • Sundays: 8:15 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.
• Route 56 (South): will expand its operational hours. The new hours will be 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Learn more

Holiday hours of operation

Big Marble, Esplanade and Landfill, oh my! When will they be open as the holidays fly by?

(Ok, ok... maybe rhyming isn't our strong suit.) We've rounded up a full list of holiday hours so you know exactly when you can, and can't, come visit us at various City facilities as we head into the holiday season.

Holiday hours

Don't clog your sewer with turkey grease!

As you prepare for your holiday feast, keep in mind that fats, oils, and grease (FOG) do not belong in the sewer. We want your holiday gatherings to be filled with joy, not the hassle of dealing with a sewer backup (pictured: grease buildup in a City sewer pipe). 

Here are a few tips to prevent sewer backups:

• Before washing your dishes, scrape leftover food off your plates into the trash.
• For liquid FOG, including gravies, sauces, and excess grease, pour them into an empty container like a jar or can. Once they've cooled down, dispose of them in the trash.
• Be aware that using a garbage disposal or soaps that claim to combat grease won't reduce the impact of FOG on the sewer system. Instead, they may spread it further down the pipeline, where it can reconvene and solidify, potentially causing blockages and backflows in your and your neighbors' sewers!

Festive lights

Did you know the City puts up and takes down 354 festive lights each year to help celebrate the holiday season? You'll find them on light posts downtown, on arterial roads (like Dunmore Road and 13th Avenue), and along other main roadways to light up your drive.

Holiday energy consumption

During the holiday season, electricity consumption tends to spike due to various festive traditions. Brightly lit Christmas lights, inflatable decorations, and appliances working overdrive for all those elaborate meals and sweet treats will amplify the load on electricity. Here are ten ways to cut down on electricity usage during the season:

1. LED lights: Choose LED lights which use up to 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
2. Natural decor: Embrace natural decorations like wreaths, pine cones, and plants to minimize reliance on electricity-driven ornaments.
3. Timers and sensors: Use automatic timers or motion sensors so lights are only on when you need them.
4. Batch cooking: Conserve oven heat and electricity by baking all your goodies in one day.
5. Cook efficiently: Use the microwave or toaster oven for smaller dishes; they're more energy-efficient than the oven.
6. Unplug devices: Unplug electronics if you leave for the holidays, or when not in use. Even when idle, they can still draw power.
7. Lower thermostat: Turn down the heat when guests come to visit. With more people indoors, lower the thermostat to account for body heat.
8. Eco-friendly options: Consider eco-friendly or reusable wrapping options to reduce waste and the resources needed for production.
9. Energy-efficient appliances: If you're hoping for a new appliance under the tree, as Santa for one that is ENERGY STAR® certified.
10. Family Time without Screens: Organize activities that don’t require electricity, like board games, storytelling, or outdoor adventures, to reduce reliance on electronic entertainment.

This holiday, practice mindful energy-saving practices amidst joyful celebrations.

Learn more about conservation and energy-efficiency

Holiday fire safety

Did you know? In North America, the three leading dates for home structure fires caused by cooking are Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, and Thanksgiving. As we prepare for holiday entertaining, remember a few key tips to keep you, your family, and your friends safe while celebrating together!

• Keep children and pets away from candles
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking
• Know the address of where you are in case you need to call 911
• Ask smokers to smoke outside and wet butts before discarding
• Turn off space hearts before leaving a room

Happy Holidays from Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services!

THIS WEEK! The Great Disconnect: A Documentary
December 14 - Esplanade at 7 p.m.
Free, reserved seating - Get Tickets

New Years Eve Fest
December 31 - Big Marble Go Centre 
Free, family activities from noon until 4 p.m.
Reserve your spot for swimming and nerf wars here.

View more City events here.

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