Dealing with Snow and Ice Build-Up

For the most part, winter is an exciting, beautiful season. Snow and ice let us participate in fun winter sports like hockey, skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing. They also bring picturesque snowfalls and scenic snowy views. However, winter can also increase certain dangers.

According to a study by the Canadian Institute for Health Information, 7,138 people were hospitalised for ice-related slips and falls from 2010 to 2011.

As a homeowner, you want to ensure that anyone on your property—from yourself and your children to neighbours and other visitors—stays safe this winter while they're at or near your home. Follow these steps to cope with snow and ice on your property and keep your family safe this winter.

1. Clear Snow from Your Property

The best thing you can do to prevent snow- and ice-related slips and falls on your property during winter is simply to remove the snow and ice. Snow blowers, snow plows, salt and sand spreaders, or a combination of all four can help you get the job done.

Snow Blowers

Snow blowers help you quickly and efficiently clear your driveway or sidewalk. They're also useful for eliminating piles of snow that municipal snow plows often leave in front of your driveway.

You can choose between a variety of snow blowers, including single-stage and two-stage. Single-stage models are typically smaller, which also makes them lighter and easier to push. Two-stage blowers propel themselves forward slightly, which makes snow blowing easier for the user.

You can also choose between gas and electric snow blowers. Electric snow blowers are typically limited by their cords, but they can be lighter and more eco-friendly than gas blowers.

Choose a snow blower based on your driveway and your area's typical weather conditions:

• Single-stage blowers work best with flat, short, paved driveways. They're also preferable for lighter snow conditions, usually between 10 to 20 centimeters. If you have a gravel driveway, avoid single-stage blowers.
• A two-stage blower works best with wider, longer, or sloped driveways. They're also more powerful, which makes them more useful in areas that typically receive more than 20 centimeters of snow.

Snow Plows

If you have a particularly long or wide driveway, or want to clear snow from the surrounding road, a snow plow might be a better option than a snow blower.

To choose a snow plow, first consider your vehicle's make and model—an older or lighter truck won't do well with a heavier, longer snow plow. Snow plows for home use also don't need to be as long or as heavy duty as snow plows for snow removal companies.

Make sure to consider:

• Your location and climate: how much snow are you likely to get in the season? How many centimeters of snow can you expect to be clearing, on average?
• Snow plow make and material: would a straight-blade plow work better for your vehicle and situation, or a V-shaped plow? Do you prefer steel or polyethylene?
• Your vehicle's durability: how much additional strain can your vehicle endure? What is your vehicle's Front Gross Axel Weight Rating (FGAWR)?

The answers to these questions can help you find the right snow plow for your particular vehicle and your area's climate. A certified snow plow dealer can help you answer these questions and find a snow plow that suits your needs.  

Salt and Sand Spreaders

Salt and sand spreaders can be used on their own or in conjunction with snow plows. Salt spreaders distribute salt to melt snow in dangerous areas, while sand spreaders distribute sand to increase traction on roadways and sidewalks.

Choose a spreader that meets your specific distribution needs. For instance, you can hitch tailgate spreaders to your truck or SUV if you plan on clearing residential streets. Or, if you plan on simply clearing a short driveway or sidewalk, choose a walk-behind spreader: you simply push the machine ahead of you to spread the sand or salt.

2. Learn How to Walk in the Snow

Unfortunately, you don't always have the time to clear your driveway before sending the kids to school. As a result, make sure everyone in the household knows how to walk in the snow and ice. For those occasions where you can't sufficiently clear your driveway after a snowfall, try these tips to reduce your risk of slipping and falling:

• • Assume that any dark, wet patch will be icy. Slow down and place your feet more carefully. Always look to see where you're going—don't look down at your cell phone screen and ignore sidewalk conditions.
  • Instead of smooth-soled shoes, choose winter boots or sturdy shoes with traction. Your feet will be warmer, and you'll be less likely to slip.
  • When you walk, angle your feet slightly outward for a better sense of balance. Take your hands out of your pockets and spread your arms out as well.

And of course, clear snow and ice from your driveway, sidewalk, and the surrounding area as soon as possible.

When you combine snow clearing equipment with winter walking know-how, you can look forward to a safer, happier winter.

No matter how much snow falls this winter, you can rest easy knowing you've prepared well.