The snow is piling up and much of the country is bracing for a winter storm. If you happen to be someone who will need to remove snow from your properties, keep in mind these safety tips to keep you safe when removing snow from your Downriver Michigan property. Taking on the task of removing snow can be quite dangerous and following these tips can help you be more safe.
Tips for Safe Snow Removal in Downriver Michigan
Before shoveling any snow, stretch and warm up so you don’t injure yourself. When lifting heavy snow, bend at the knees to avoid injury. Also, make sure you are pushing snow, not lifting it. If necessary, spread salt or other de-icers over ice before shoveling the snow away.
Shovel Safely- Slips and Falls
It’s also important to be cautious while shoveling. Be aware of potential slips or falls, especially if you have an uneven or icy surface. If possible, clear smaller portions at a time to avoid any injuries that might result from lost footing. Remember not to push snow onto walks or driveways – it could cause someone to slip.
Salt/Chemicals
Salting or using chemicals are important when you have icy surfaces. However, do not salting over your shoes, as the salt will get into any cracks and crevices and could later cause problems with smell or insulation.
Snow Removal from Roofing
Unfortunately, every winter, there are people who get injured from accidents during the removal of snow from their roofs . In almost all cases, these injuries could have been prevented with a little bit of knowledge about how to safely remove heavy snow by hand or with a shovel.
Do not try to remove large amounts of heavy wet snow by hand. This is very dangerous and can result in serious injuries, including back injuries or death.
If your roof is flat, you should consider hiring a professional snow removal company to remove the snow from the roof for you. However, if your are on a steeply sloped roofs where it’s almost impossible for someone to safely stand without slipping off the edge, it is possible to remove the snow by hand without any damage.
What you will need:
A long handled roof rake (enough for at least one person). A pair of thick gloves. The thickest, sturdiest ladder you can find. Do not try to use a shovel or other similar tool – this could cause injuries!
Steps to Take:
Find the highest point of your roof. Walk around until you find that spot, then have one person stand there while another person climbs up the ladder and holds it still for them to climb onto the roof. Use the long handled rake to pull snow off of your roof. One person can take a turn pulling down on the handles as the other gathers up snow with their gloved hands, but try not to pull too much at once so you don’t put too much strain on yourself or your helpers. Repeat this process until all of the snow is cleared off of your roof. Be very careful not lose footing when walking back and forth across your roof!
Hire a Professional Snow Removal Company
If you cannot find a long handled roof rake, or if snow removal from your roof is too dangerous, consider hiring a professional company to remove snow from your roof. It may cost more, but it will prevent any injuries that could occur from trying this task by yourself. Also, removing snow from your driveway, steps, and even the sidewalks should be regularly removed. If this task seems a bit too much there are always options you can take such as hiring a professional snow removal company.
Shoveling snow can be a difficult and strenuous task for some people. If it’s impossible for you to safely complete the job on your own, make sure to hire professionals who can do the job for you! One of the best is Cutting Edge Property Maintenance. They offer free quotes and have many options for snow removal in Downriver Michigan. Call them today at 734-787-7157
Be safe out there – do not try anything without research first! Also, these tips are generic and may not apply to everyone. Please consult with an expert before attempting any of these tasks as they might be too complex.
