To text a tip to the Worcester Police Department, you must have text messaging enabled on your phone and subscribe to a participating cell phone carrier. To begin your tip session, text the word "TIPWPD" to the number 274637, this spells the word "CRIMES" on your phone's keypad.

While handset menus differ by carrier or model, here are some basic steps on how to compose a text message.

Seniors and the disabled can call Worcester 311 at 311 for a list of agencies and phone numbers that may be able to assist in snow removal.

Sidewalks must be cleared 10 hours after snow ceases to fall. Sidewalks must be cleared four (4) feet wide in front of property and on all sides of a corner property.

We ask that residents help out by keeping the hydrants in front of your property clear of snow.

Plows are fixed and angled to the right so when plowing, snow may end up on the driveway that you just shoveled. We apologize for any inconvenience this causes but plow blades cannot be lifted as they pass by a driveway. You may wish to clear your driveway several times during the storm or wait until the storm and plowing operations have ended.

Report this to Police Dispatch at 508-799-8600 as soon as possible.

Typically, one inch (1") of snow must accumulate.

Yes. All City streets are plowed. Main roads and major arteries are plowed before smaller side streets. Likewise, paved roads are plowed with better quality due to the condition of the road itself while private roads are often dirt roads that are rutted and have potholes making them more difficult to plow.

Winter sand is free and available to residents using hand buckets only. It can be picked up at three sites; at the DPW&P Yard on Clark Street near the intersection of East Mountain Street, Albany Street outside the salt shed yard and at the Millbury Street Drop-Off Center. Salt is not available.

Vehicles will be ticketed and towed at the owner's expense.