After a snowstorm, clearing your sidewalks is essential to ensure foot traffic can safely walk about our neighborhood. When it comes to sidewalk snow removal, there is a lot to get right, and perhaps just as much to get wrong. Here are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to this concept.
Do shovel sidewalks early and often
Waiting until after all the snow has fallen may seem like a good idea; however, removing several inches of snow all at once can be back breaking. Instead, shovel smaller amounts of snow as it falls, and you’ll find it much easier to remove.
Do dress appropriately for the weather
Hypothermia often results whenever people attempt to shovel snow without the right protective clothing. Ideally, you should dress in layers so you can add or remove clothing as needed. It’s also important to wear thermal socks and gloves to prevent frostbite to your extremities.
Do use the right equipment
A snow shovel differs from a spade or regular shovel in that it has a flat blade that makes it ideal for scooping with. It is also more lightweight, so it is easier on your back. You are also less likely to remove gravel or scrape your sidewalk when using a snow shovel.
Do not use non pet friendly salt or commercial ice melt products
These products contain harmful chemicals that might run off into sewers and drainage ditches, where they will eventually enter the water supply. They also pose a hazard to pets, as animals can get residue on their paws that may be ingested if they lick them.
Do not break up ice with the end of a shovel
A special ice breaker tool is ideal for breaking up ice, and will make this task much easier. An ice breaker tool contains a long handle with a flat blade at the end that can be used to crack through ice so that it can then be scooped up.
Do not use kitty litter or sand to melt the ice
These products are actually not effective at melting ice, and instead only provide traction. They also make snow shoveling a whole lot messier and erode the topcoat on your sidewalk.