Winter weather brings a unique set of challenges, but by working together, we can make the season safer for everyone. There are simple ways we can all pitch in to help our neighbors, make snow plowing more effective, and improve winter safety for everyone.
Clear the Way for Snow Plows
One of the easiest ways to help plows reach your street is by parking cars in your driveway or garage until the roads are plowed. This opens up the streets, allowing plows to move efficiently through your neighborhood. If garbage day falls on a snowy morning, place your trash cans behind the curb line. Simple adjustments like these can speed up snow removal.
Keep Driveways and Sidewalks Clear
Snow plows cannot clear streets without pushing some snow into your driveway. To help reduce the buildup of snow, shovel snow to the right side of your driveway (as you face the street). This can prevent a large pile from forming across your driveway after the plow passes, making it easier for you to shovel your driveway.
Similarly, avoid shoveling or snow blowing snow into the street when clearing your driveway and sidewalk. Piling snow in the street creates hazardous conditions for drivers. Instead, keep snow on your property and off the road.
Clear Around Fire Hydrants
If you have a fire hydrant nearby, make sure it’s cleared of snow after a storm. This makes it accessible for emergency crews, ensuring they don’t lose time during an emergency. A few minutes spent shoveling around a hydrant could make a life-saving difference.
Keep Intersections and Alleys Safe
Snow piled up at intersections and alleys can block visibility for drivers, creating dangerous blind spots. To help drivers see clearly, avoid piling snow near these areas. With better visibility, drivers can navigate these tricky spots easier and make the roads safer for everyone.
Be Salt Smart: Use the Right Amount of Salt
You need less salt than you might think to melt snow and ice. Did you know that just one 12-ounce cup of salt is enough to treat 10 sidewalk squares? Being Salt Smart not only keeps walkways safe but also helps protect local rivers from pollution caused by excess salt. After the snow has melted, be sure to sweep up any leftover salt to prevent it from being washed into the storm drains and waterways.
Lend a Hand
After you’ve cleared your own walkways and driveway, consider lending a hand to those who may need help. Whether it’s shoveling a sidewalk or simply checking in, a small act of kindness can go a long way in building a stronger community.
Next time it snows, try a few of these steps to help snow plows, drivers, and neighbors. Winter can be tough, but together, we can make our neighborhoods easier and safer to navigate.
