Snow

Get those snow shovels and blowers ready to tackle these recommended spots in your neighborhood:

1. The sidewalk in front of your home
2. Sidewalks in front of vacant homes or homes where residents are unable to shovel
3. Fire hydrants
4. Bus stops (there are more than 4,000 in the county!)
5. Sidewalks/paths that lead to schools or community buildings
6. Bike trails
7. Storm drains
8. Parking identified as accessible spaces for people with disabilities

Work as a community to plan snow removal in your neighborhood. 

Some things to consider when working out your snow removal plans:

• What areas are priority for clearing to keep the neighborhood and its residents safe?
• Who will clear out fire hydrants so they are easily visible in an emergency?
• Where will the excess snow go? (When in doubt, shovel to the right.)
• Do some neighbors need assistance in clearing their walkways (due to age, disability, etc.)?
• Can you volunteer to use/share equipment such as small snow blowers for a community removal effort?

Sometimes we need to drive in snowy conditions. To be safe on our roads, drivers are asked to:

1. Clear your vehicles of snow and ice, especially on roofs!
2. Don't crowd plows! Give them space to work.
3. Monitor weather to stay informed of the latest timing and intensity along your travel routes.
4. Adjust commutes to avoid the worst of the weather until conditions improve.
5. Take it slow on bridges, ramps, overpasses and other known trouble spots.
6. Ensure gas tanks and windshield fluid tanks are full, and take time to update your car’s emergency kit.
7. Watch for pedestrians as sidewalks may not be clear.

While salt helps get rid of ice, too much can be harmful to our drinking water, dogs, aquatic life, trees, vegetation, vehicles, pipes and infrastructure.

So, don’t over do it.

• Make sure you’re using just enough to get the job done. For example, a 12-ounce mug of salt should be enough to treat a 20-foot driveway or about 10 sidewalk squares.
• When the pavement temperature is less than 15 degrees, salt won't work. 
• Also, consider how salt can impact neighborhood dogs; if possible, try and use pet-friendly kinds.
• Consider using safer alternatives such as sand for traction.

Snow sure looks pretty, but it must be shoveled — safely.

• If you or someone you are with begins to have chest discomfort, call or text 9-1-1 right away.
• If you have a history of heart disease do not shovel without your doctor’s OK.
• Take breaks while shoveling and do not overexert yourself, especially if you are usually inactive.
• Push the snow instead of lifting where possible.