Don’t Be That Guy: Winter Etiquette in a Small Town
City of Kootenai Winter Wisdom Series
There’s nothing like winter in North Idaho — powdery snow, crisp skies, and enough hot coffee to fuel a plow crew. But for all its beauty, winter can also bring out… well, “that guy.”
You know the one.
So here’s your friendly local reminder: we’re all in this snow globe together. A little winter etiquette goes a long way in a town like Kootenai.
1. Don’t Park Like You’ve Never Seen Snow
Yes, the lines are buried. No, that doesn’t mean take a guess and call it good. If you’re in a lot — aim for symmetry. If you’re on the street — don’t block plows, mailboxes, or driveways. And definitely don’t leave your car halfway in the road during a storm. We see you. We all see you.
2. Help Your Plow Guy Help You
If you’ve got a hired plow or a neighbor doing you a solid, give them some space. Move your vehicles out of the way when possible, and if you do get bermed in by a city plow, don’t take it personally — they’re not aiming for your driveway, just clearing the road.
3. Snowblower Courtesy is a Real Thing
Aim your snowblower chute wisely. Nobody wants a fresh blast of powder across their newly cleared sidewalk — or worse, their freshly shoveled car. Keep it tidy and aim low.
4. You Can’t Park on a Snow Pile
We get it. Parking is tight. But those ten-foot mountains of frozen fluff in the Super 1 parking lot are not overflow spots. If your truck sinks, we’re all going to stand there watching you try to dig it out. Just… don’t.
5. Got a Fire Hydrant? Clear It.
If there’s a hydrant on your property, shovel around it. In an emergency, seconds count — and your snow pile could cost someone a lot more than convenience.
6. No One Cares About Your AWD on Ice
Look, we all love our rigs. But 4WD doesn’t make you invincible. It just means you might crash faster. Slow down, don’t tailgate, and don’t pass on icy roads unless it’s truly safe (and legal). Nobody’s impressed.
7. Wave at the Plow Truck
Seriously. They’re out there at 4 a.m. so you can make it to Super 1 for milk and jerky. Give them a nod. Even if you’re buried in snow at the end of your driveway — that’s the cost of clear roads. It’s a fair trade.
In Kootenai, we all play a part in keeping things moving during the winter. A little patience, a little neighborly grace, and a sense of humor go a long way. Don’t be that guy. Be the reason someone smiles on a frosty morning.
