Snow Removal

As Calgarians, we all know that each Winter you can never predict when the snow will arrive, leave or if it will stay for the whole season. Regardless of how long the white stuff sticks around, as a homeowner you should know that you have some responsibilities.

According to the City of Calgary bylaw, “the owner or occupant of any private property adjacent to a sidewalk is deemed responsible for the removal of ice and snow from that portion of the sidewalk within 24 hours after the ice or snow has been deposited.”

Snow removal can be hard work! Here are some handy tips to help keep you safe and make shovelling easier:

• Stretch before you touch that shovel. Stretch thoroughly using the same sort of moves that runners, mountain bikers and other athletes use.
• Maintain proper posture. Use your legs as much as possible, and keep your back straight. Hold the snow shovel as close to your body as possible, and try not to twist your upper body as you throw the snow.
• Clear your cars first. Brush snow off cars then clear around the cars.
• Do the foreground, then the background. First shovel a strip clear along the perimeter, then, moving from the center to the edge, push the snow into the cleared area. Next, lift and throw the snow out of the area.
• Don’t be too picky! You want to do a good job, but remember that once most of the reflective snow has been cleared the dark surfaces of your sidewalk and driveway will help the sun to melt the rest.
• Get a head start. If it looks like we’re going to get a good dump of snow, it’s easier to go out a few times and remove it in layers, than wait until the snow has finished to remove it.
• Stretch some more! Stretch gently when you’re done and use an ice pack and ibuprofen to take care of inflamed muscles. Rest and remain hydrated.

Did you know that the City of Calgary provides salted gravel, free of charge, to help you keep your sidewalks snow- and ice-free? Visit their website to find out where you can pick some up.

Consider becoming a Snow Angel by helping neighbours in need, especially seniors, with snow removal this winter. Take a few extra minutes when shovelling your own sidewalk to shovel a neighbour’s sidewalk and to keep them clear, ice-free and safe.