Canada Post says Santa Claus won’t have time to reply to letters this Christmas season because of the mail strike that ended Tuesday.
Volunteers reply to the letters from children, and the replies are delivered by postal carriers.
The Crown corporation said in a news release Wednesday that letters to Santa marked with the HOH OHO postal code and mailed by this Monday will still be delivered to the North Pole.
“Although Santa won’t have time to respond to letters received through the mail this year, we want to let children know that their letters will make it to him by Christmas Eve,” the release states. “Santa is looking forward to reading all the letters he receives.”
With mail delivery resuming, Canada Post also reminded people to keep pathways to homes and businesses clear of snow and ice.
“With the cold and snow gripping most regions across the country, slippery and dark walkways, as well as seasonal decorations, can pose a safety risk to our employees — and others,” the Crown corporation said in another news release.
“That is why we’re reminding homeowners and businesses to help us deliver letters and parcels safely by keeping a clear and safe path to their home or business. With everyone’s support, we can help avoid an injury that can happen in just seconds.”
In addition to keeping pathways free and clear of ice, Canada Post is asking people to remove ice from stairs, keep stairs and handrails free of obstructions and turn on outdoor lighting to ensure pathways and stairs are visible.
A Canada Post spokesperson said decorations such as garlands, ribbons and lights on handrails can make it difficult for someone to place a hand on the rail for balance. Electrical cords and wires crossing paths to illuminate inflatables and lights can also pose a hazard, the spokesperson said.
fpcity@freepress.mb.ca