Published date:
January 24, 2025Last updated date:
January 24, 2025By Ana Loor
Winter weather can create hazardous conditions on sidewalks and driveways, increasing the risk of slips, falls, and accidents. Properly managing icy surfaces is essential to keep your family, employees, and visitors safe. Here are practical tips and tricks to manage ice and snow effectively at home and work.
The best time to deal with ice is before it forms. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and prepare to act before freezing conditions set in. Spread a layer of ice melt or rock salt on sidewalks and driveways when snow is predicted. These products lower the freezing point of water, preventing ice from forming and making it easier to remove snow.
For businesses, designate someone responsible for monitoring and addressing icy conditions. Investing in automated temperature and precipitation sensors can provide real-time updates to help you take preemptive action.
Not all ice melts are created equal. Choose the right product based on your needs:
Apply these products sparingly and evenly to avoid waste and potential environmental harm. Sweep up excess ice melt after the ice has thawed to prevent runoff into storm drains.
Removing snow promptly prevents it from compacting and turning into ice. Use a sturdy snow shovel or a snowblower to clear sidewalks and driveways as soon as possible after a snowfall.
At work, ensure that parking lots, entryways, and walkways are cleared regularly. Assign a maintenance team or hire a snow removal service to keep up with heavy snowfall.
For large areas, consider investing in tools like snowplows or snow pushers. For smaller areas, ergonomic shovels reduce strain and make the task easier.
Even after clearing snow and ice, some areas may remain slippery. Use sand, gravel, or kitty litter to improve traction on these spots. These materials are particularly useful for steep driveways, stairs, and high-traffic walkways.
At work, use commercial-grade mats or rubberized runners at entrances to reduce the risk of slips and provide added traction for employees and visitors.
Standing water from poor drainage can freeze and create hazardous icy patches. Identify problem areas where water collects, such as low spots in driveways or near downspouts, and address the root cause.
Install drainage systems, redirect downspouts away from walkways, or use sandbags to divert water. For quick fixes, spread extra ice melt or sand in these areas to reduce the risk of freezing.
For a long-term solution, consider installing heated driveways or walkways. These systems use electric or hydronic heating elements to melt snow and ice automatically. While they’re an investment, they save time and effort and reduce the need for ice-melting chemicals.
Portable heated mats are another option for smaller areas or entryways. They can be laid out temporarily during icy conditions and stored when not in use.
Encourage everyone at home and work to adopt safe walking habits. Suggest wearing slip-resistant footwear with good tread. Use handrails when available, and take small, cautious steps on icy surfaces.
Provide adequate lighting around walkways and driveways to ensure ice patches are visible, especially in early mornings or evenings. For workplaces, place warning signs in areas prone to icing to alert employees and visitors.
Routine maintenance goes a long way in managing icy conditions. At home, inspect your property regularly for cracks or uneven surfaces that can worsen icy hazards. Seal and repair these areas before winter arrives.
For businesses, schedule routine inspections of outdoor areas and maintain a log of snow removal and ice-melting activities. This can help demonstrate due diligence in the event of an accident claim.
Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. Keep first-aid kits handy at home and work to address any injuries from slips or falls. Familiarize yourself with emergency contacts for professional snow removal services or medical assistance.
Consider eco-friendly alternatives to traditional ice-melting products to reduce environmental impact. Look for biodegradable options or products labeled as safe for vegetation and pets. Sand and gravel can also provide traction without introducing harmful chemicals into the environment.
Managing icy sidewalks and driveways requires a proactive and consistent approach. By acting early, using the right tools, and maintaining safe practices, you can minimize hazards and keep your spaces safe for everyone. Whether at home or work, these tips ensure you’re ready to tackle winter’s icy challenges head-on.
All Land News