De-Ice Your Sidewalk

Don't be caught slipping at your front door! Icy sidewalks can be a real safety hazard, but with a little preventative maintenance, you can keep your walks free and clear of ice. The first step to de-icing your sidewalks is to shovel them as soon as possible. When snow is fresh, it's much easier to remove. A good rule is to shovel once two inches has accumulated. Next, you'll want to lay salt on the pathways and areas where you park your car. Pay attention to any low points where water can accumulate and freeze, as well as spots where water will drip from warm rooftops. If you don't have a bag of salt, you can find them at any hardware or grocery store with an outdoor department. A ten pound bag will go a long way, so get a weight you will be comfortable toting along your sidewalks. Lay enough salt to prevent ice. If ice has already developed, then cover it well enough to provide extra traction for walking. Reapply as needed. If you have several yards of sidewalk that you're responsible for, save your back and invest in a walk behind salt spreader. Stay safe this winter and protect the people you love by keeping your pathways free of ice!