The Municipality of Chatham-Kent and the Public Works Department are reminding local residents to salt their sidewalks where necessary during the winter months.
Public Works is reminding residents that although the Municipality plows all sidewalks in Chatham-Kent, property owners are required to de-ice sidewalks surrounding their property within 48 hours following a snowfall as per Municipal By-law No. 178-2019.
Certain downtown areas are salted by the Municipality. A map of these areas can be found on our website at www.chatham-kent.ca.
Public Works also asks residents to check and clear drains and catch basins while shoveling, especially during melting conditions. Blocked catch basins may result in excess water along the road area, which can become dangerous if it subsequently 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 shoveling 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” says Ryan Brown, Director of Public Works. “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.”
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent maintains over 3,463 kms of roadway, 410 kms of sidewalks, bus stops, bridges, and pedestrian crossovers.
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.
