

Shovel snow and ice rather than use salt. The less rock salt you use, the better. It's usually the last thing people want to do, but the best remedy for removing snow and ice is shoveling. The longer you leave snow and ice on your driveway and walkway, the harder it will be to remove. With heavy snowfall it pays to start shoveling even as the snow is still falling. You might have to go back out to finish, but the shoveling will be easier if you do a few inches at a time. Make sure you have a good-quality, lightweight snow shovel. Metal shovels are easiest to use and have less chance of breaking. Remove snow from the driveway and all walkways needed for access to and from your house.
Helpful Tip
Don't forget to shovel around your mailbox, garbage cans and other areas you'll need to access.
Shovel snow toward where you'll be piling it so that you'll have less distance to toss it as you start to tire. Chip away any ice that you find under the snow with an ice chipper and remove it with the shovel. Push snow out of the way when and where possible. Only pile on as much snow as you can handle on your shovel. Don't overdo it, and don't bend with your back—always lift with your knees.
Safety Alerts!
Shoveling snow and removing ice can be tiring, hard work. Be careful, especially if you are not physically fit. If you have medical or health issues, such as a heart condition, you should check with your doctor before doing this kind of work. Stay hydrated; as with exercising, drinking plenty of water is a necessity when shoveling.
Remember to dress appropriately by wearing layers. As you work, you'll warm up so shedding a layer or two will make work easier and more comfortable. Wear work gloves and snow boots as well.
Keep in mind that you're not in a race. You don't need to finish the job in one long shoveling session. It's best to work for 30 to 45 minutes and then go inside to warm up and rest for an hour or so. Then, when you're feeling up to it, head back out.