How Do I Get a Fleet Vehicle over the Holidays?

If you need to start your trip over the Christmas or New Year's holiday you may pick up your keys after 4 pm on the last business day before the University Holiday.  You will not be charged until you use the vehicle. Please make sure to note on the requisition the day you will begin using your vehicle.

Upcoming Office Hours of Note

• The Office is closed Tuesday 12/24 and Wednesday 12/25
• The Office is closed Wednesday 1/1

Starting December 26, through January 17, our office will be closing at 5pm. With the holidays fast approaching, please remember these modified office hours.

Oldies But Goodies

At our recent Parking Department staff appreciation event, several Fleet Services staff members were honored for their longevity. Congratulations to our Maintenance Supervisor Pat who was recognized for 40 years of University service, Manager Mike for 25 years, Mechanic’s Assistant John for 15 years, Automotive Truck and Transit Technician Jason for 10 years, and Automotive Truck and Transit Technician Robert for 5 years of service. Our dedicated and committed staff are the reason that Fleet Services is the success that it is.

Welcome Ken and Erik to the Team

Following up on the oldies, we got a couple of newbies who recently joined our team. Ken started on 9/24 as a Mechanic’s Assistant helping with vehicle detailing and rental fleet operations. Erik started on 11/25 as a new full-time Automotive Truck and Transit Technician that will split time between Fleet Services and CAMBUS. Please join us in welcoming Ken and Erik to Fleet Services!

Please Move Cars for Snow Removal

Keep an eye on weather forecasts and parking lot conditions, especially during heavy snowfall events. If there is a big snow coming and your University vehicle is parked in a surface lot, please move it to the edge of the parking lot to leave room for the plows. Fleet vehicle users need to move vehicles within 24-48 hours after snow so the crews can clean the areas. If possible, avoid parking in the lot during or shortly after snowfall, as this is when plows are most active. This will assist the plow drivers and allow them to efficiently clear the lot. If your car is snowed in or inaccessible you can contact Parking Dispatch (319-335-8312) and they can help you get the car dug out so it can be moved. A large snowfall is difficult for everyone, maintenance workers included, please help them out by moving your vehicles.

Stuck in the Snow

If you get stuck in the snow this winter, follow these tips to stay safe and get back on the road as fast as possible:

• Avoid spinning tires: put the vehicle in the lowest gear and move forward until the tires slip. Once they slip, put the vehicle in reverse and repeat until the vehicle dislodges from the snow. 
• Use traction aids: Try road salt or cat litter under the tires if available.
• Emergency contacts: Call 911 for emergencies or roadside assistance for help if you cannot get yourself un-stuck. 
• Increase your visibility: tie a bright cloth to your antenna or place roadside reflectors on the road to maximize visibility so other people can see you.
• Clear the exhaust pipe: Remove snow from the exhaust pipe so it does not get clogged and cause your vehicle to stall.
• Stay in the vehicle: Stay inside, turn off the engine, and restart every 10 minutes for heat.

During the winter time it is important to check weather forecasts and plan ahead. Always check your tires for adequate tread and air, fill up on fluids, and examine wipers. Keep an emergency kit in the vehicle with things like cat litter, a small shovel, extra warm layers, food/snacks, first aid kit and a flashlight.

Fleet Factoid

According to the NOAA’s Severe Weather 101 FAQ page, on average, thirteen inches of snow equals one inch of rain in the US. This ratio can vary from two inches for sleet to nearly fifty inches for very dry, powdery snow under certain conditions.