The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is reminding property owners to salt their sidewalks.
CK's Director of Public Works Ryan Brown said the municipal bylaw requires property owners to salt sidewalks. The Public Works Department is reminding residents that although the municipality plows all sidewalks in the winter, property owners are required to de-ice sidewalks surrounding their property within 48 hours following a snowfall as per the municipal bylaw.
Brown added that certain downtown areas are salted by the municipality. A map of these areas can be found at www.chatham-kent.ca.
Brown is also asking the public to take a moment to clear any drains adjacent to their property when out shovelling, especially during melting conditions. Blocked catch basins may cause excess water along the road, which can become dangerous if it freezes. Blocked catch basins may also result in flooding of adjacent properties depending on the extent of the blockage and the amount of melting snow.
“When you are out shovelling and salting, please also consider lending a hand to your neighbour. There are some people in our community who may have difficulty clearing snow and ice and could use a helping hand” said Brown. “Please make private arrangements if you need help, and also if you expect to be away from home during the winter season. Thank you for doing your part to be a good neighbour and for helping to keep our community safe."
Chatham-Kent maintains over 3,463 kilometres of road, 410 kilometres of sidewalks, several bus stops, bridges, and pedestrian crossovers and the municipality plows all sidewalks in the winter.
Tips for Shovelling Snow:
Cold, tight muscles are prone to injury, so try going for a brisk walk, marching in place or doing any other full-body activity before shovelling.
Pace yourself by removing small amounts of snow frequently instead of removing a large pile all at once.
Shovel snow into your yard, not onto the street. Excess snow shovelled onto the street can become an obstacle and create unsafe conditions.
Spread rock salt on your driveway to increase traction and reduce accidents.
Take a 10 or 15-minute break during shovelling and stretch out your arms, shoulders and back to keep them warm and flexible.
Use an ergonomic snow shovel with a curved or adjustable handle to make snow removal easier.
Use the shovel to push snow to one side rather than lifting it. If lifting is necessary, bend your knees to take the strain off your back.
Wear shoes or boots with good treads to minimize the risk of slipping.