KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS - SNOW REMOVAL
This would have probably been a better topic earlier in the season, but more snow will come and it's good to have a few tips on safe snow and ice removal. If you don't have your areas cleared it will be virtually impossible after a deep freeze.
Use a melting agent on the sidewalks and driveways. Rock salt is inexpensive and can be used in temperatures as low as 15 degrees. It may damage asphalt and concrete. Calcium chloride is more expensive especially this year, but can be used down to 20 degrees below zero. It will not damage concrete and asphalt. Those of us concerned about pets and landscaping can find products at hardware and pet stores to address this problem.
It's important that your shovel is at least part metal. You'll need to scrape up freezing slush and snow. Plastic just doesn't cut it. There are many ergonomically designed shovels on the market. Find one that fits you best. Know your limits. Take frequent breaks. There is a reason that heavy wet stuff is called heart attack snow! Keep and ice chipper on hand. It works great for patches of ice that are too tough to shovel. Crack the ice. This will expose it to more air and hasten melting.
Your best bet is to purchase a small snow blower. Toro and Ariens are just two brands I am familiar with. The small Toro Powerlight models are relatively inexpensive, although after all this snow I hope they will still be available. They usually come with electric starts and are easy for almost anyone to handle, including me.
Good luck and stay warm this week.
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
