Snow clearing guide 2022-23
When snow falls or ice is forecast, there's a few things you can do to keep your home and community safe.
Be prepared for snow and ice this winter by clicking through the topics below:
Step 1 - Keep an eye on the weather
If you know it is likely to snow or cold enough to cause ice it's a good idea to pre-treat your pavement / path / driveway. Scatter a thin covering of salt the evening before, and keep the salt and clearing materials in a location that will remain accessible if it does snow.
Step 2 - Look after yourself and others
Clearing snow is hard work, so make sure you take plenty of breaks and know when to stop. Wear suitable clothing, including boots and warm waterproof clothing. Wear a reflective vest / jacket if working near a road. Don't put yourself in unnecessary danger to clear ice or snow. Inform someone where you are and how long you intend to be and take a mobile phone with you, and keep them updated.
Don’t be afraid to clear paths in fear someone will get injured. People walking on snow and ice have the responsibility to be careful. When snow is cleared and the ground is salted properly, it's less likely refreeze and become more dangerous.
Step 3 - Clearing snow
- Clear a path using a shovel and remove the snow. Deposit snow in verges or front gardens, NOT in drainage gullies.
- Once the bulk of snow is cleared, the sun can help the melting and evaporation process throughout the day.
- Place salt on a small trowel and shake some off as you walk along, alternatively, use a seed spreader for quicker, more efficient spreading. Salt helps prevent the re-freezing of water that can create black ice.
Remember: salt does not remove snow or compacted ice. Using lots of salt is unnecessary, wasteful, and harmful to the environment.
How much salt should I use?
Less than you think! A small handful should clear and protect 1m (3ft) of surface. Therefore to treat 400m (1320ft) of pavement, a 20kg bag of salt will be enough.