Winter is an inevitable part of living in Calgary, bringing with it snow and ice that can transform our streets and sidewalks into a challenging environment. While snow shoveling is a common winter chore, it often requires more effort and care than many realize. The bending, lifting, and repetitive motions involved can lead to back injuries or muscle strains if you're not careful.
Snow Shoveling Safety Tips
To help you stay safe while clearing snow this season, here are some important tips:
Consult Your Doctor: If you have any medical conditions or concerns, check with your doctor before taking on strenuous snow removal tasks.
Dress for the Cold: Wear warm, layered clothing, and don’t forget gloves, a hat, and sturdy boots to stay protected from the elements.
Use the Right Shovel: Choose a shovel that matches your height and feels comfortable to handle. The right tool can prevent strain and make the job easier.
Warm Up First: Before starting, do some light stretches and a quick warm-up to loosen your muscles.
Push Instead of Lifting: Whenever possible, push the snow rather than lifting it. This reduces strain on your back.
Avoid Twisting Movements: Throwing snow over your shoulder or to the side can put unnecessary stress on your back. Instead, try to move snow directly in front of you.
Pace Yourself: Take regular breaks and don’t overexert yourself. Shoveling can be exhausting, and it's important to listen to your body.
Shovel Often: Clearing snow while it's still light and fresh is much easier than dealing with packed, heavy snow. Frequent shoveling can prevent overexertion.
Community Safety Reminder
If snow and ice aren’t cleared promptly from your sidewalks, they can become hazardous for neighbors and passersby. According to Calgary bylaws, you must remove snow and ice from sidewalks bordering your property within 24 hours after a snowfall ends.
For added safety, the City of Calgary provides free sand and salt mixtures (known as "pickle") at designated City Roads maintenance yards, while supplies last. This can help keep walkways safer for everyone.
For more information on local snow removal bylaws, visit calgary.ca.
Need Help with Snow Removal?
If you're pressed for time, have a large property, or simply don’t enjoy shoveling, Grey Rock Group’s professional snow removal team is here to help! We offer a range of services, from shoveling walkways to plowing large acreage driveways and managing icy surfaces. With flexible contract options—whether you're looking for seasonal coverage or just vacation-time service—we have a solution to fit your needs.
Let us handle the heavy lifting so you can enjoy a safe and stress-free winter!