Durham Works

Children and youth in Durham Region, become Water Warriors!

Do you know a young artist who cares about protecting Durham region’s water? Durham residents aged 18 and under are invited to take part in our annual Water Report Cover Drawing Challenge! Become “Water Warriors” by creating artwork that showcases how you help protect water at home, school or in your community. Two submissions will be selected as cover artwork for upcoming Regional water reports!

Completed drawings or paintings must be submitted by Sunday, February 15 via email to 

Be prepared for winter driving

Driving conditions in winter can be challenging. Ensure you are ready for driving in the winter by:

• Installing winter-rated tires, which can help improve safety and increase traction on slippery, snow-covered or icy roads.
• Having an emergency kit in the trunk of your vehicle with items such as blankets, a shovel, a flashlight, a flare, food and a first-aid kit.
• Using a windshield-washer fluid rated for -40°C or lower.
• Checking the weather forecasts and driving conditions before going out on the...

Darker commuting hours affecting visibility on roadways

This time of year brings shorter days and darker commutes, resulting in reduced visibility on our roadways. Our collision data shows that the highest number of pedestrian and cyclist-involved collisions take place between October and December. That’s why we’re reminding Durham Region residents to be extra cautious and practice road safety as darkness comes earlier.

The following tips for roadway users will help improve safety for everyone:

Drivers:

• Pay special attention to crosswalks and sidewalks...

Remember to give your batteries new life: Recycle batteries during the week of October 6

Batteries dead? Don't let your old batteries go to waste! Put household batteries out for recycling during the week of October 6 on your regular collection day. Place used household batteries in a clear, sealable plastic bag. Sealed bags are to be placed on top of your closed Green Bin for collection.

Batteries are not garbage as up to 92 per cent of battery components are recyclable and recoverable. By taking part in the battery collection program, you can help prevent mercury, cadmium and other...

Get ready for Curbside Giveaway Day on September 13

Are you thinking of taking part in Durham Region’s Curbside Giveaway Day on Saturday, September 13?

Here’s how it works: on the event day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., residents place unwanted items (in good condition!) – clearly marked as “Free” – on their curb for anyone to pick up. At the end of the day, residents return unclaimed items to their home.

Curbside Giveaway Day events are an opportunity to reduce the amount of garbage going to disposal by giving away your unwanted items or by going on a...