Helsinki is experiencing a snowy winter, making movement challenging in some areas. The local rescue authorities are emphasizing the importance of correctly managing snow piles and outdoor spaces to avoid hindering emergency services. They warned that improperly piled snow and neglected property can obstruct access for first responders when timing is critical.

According to the rescue service, snow has been cleared onto streets and intersections in ways that reduce visibility. High snowbanks can cover traffic signs and potentially hide small road users, creating dangerous situations. Specifically, designated emergency routes, or 'pelastustiet', are particularly problematic when snow is incorrectly managed.

The rescue service's notice stresses that vehicles must not be parked nor should snow be stored on these emergency routes. Under Finnish rescue law, property owners, tenants, and operators are responsible for ensuring that these routes remain accessible, unobstructed, and properly marked, with a minimum width requirement of 3.5 meters. This reminder is critical to maintaining public safety and ensuring swift emergency response in snowy conditions.