Tuesday, November 6, 2012

The Happy Shoveller



With the new season, comes new weather patterns, and it’s not uncommon this time of year for us to have a foot of snow one day and be in tshirts looking at the grass the next. …but eventually, the white stuff stays.  Shoveling can be back breaking work, and it’s a long season, so here are a few tips to help make the job a bit easier:
Snow:
  • Clean the snow as soon as you are able to prevent it from becoming ice.
  • Use a shovel with a small blade, and ergonomic handle with a slight curve.
  • Don’t lift too much, use a small shovel or only fill a large one half way.
  • Spray the blade with cooking oil if snow seems to be sticking.
  • Take a break every 10-15 minutes.
For ice:
  • Spreading sand before ice forms can make it easier to clean down the road.  Free sand is available at Edmonton Community Leagues
  • Microwave sand and spread it while warm to make it more effective.
  • Try not to pile snow where it will melt and run across a sidewalk, which can be dangerous when it then freezes to ice.
If you are concerned about sidewalks, you can find contact information and detailed info regarding bylaws here:
Edmonton:   Snow must be removed within 48 hours between Nov 1 and May 1.  You can call 311 with concerns or contact them online.

Stay warm and Happy Shoveling!! 

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