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Many people do not realize that these products are harming local waters and the
animals that rely of them. When the ice and snow melt, the salt and chemicals
flow into street drains that lead directly to rivers and lakes.
We can have safe walkways in the winter and cleaner local water all
year round by minimizing salt use and using it wisely.
+ Shovel Often and Early
Shoveling often during and immediately following the storm removes the snow from walkways and driveways before it gets trampled. The most important part of deicing is removing as much snow as possible before applying - it’s also great exercise!
+ Make the Most of the Salt You Use
It is not always necessary to see bare pavement to have a safe winter surface. Ask yourself if it is necessary that the snow or ice be removed. If you determine it is, for salt to be effective, air temperature needs to be warmer than the surface temperature of the area you want to treat. A little goes a long way. Use only the recommended amount. Throwing down more salt will not speed up the melting process. Use only enough deicer to break the bond between the ice and the pavement, then remove the remaining slush by shoveling.
+ Limit the Amount of Sand You Use
Sand provides traction. It does not melt ice. Sand, although not chemical contributes to polluting our local waters. It adds to the excess sediment that is entering waterways, eliminating important habitat for aquatic organisms. Sand is does play a role in winter road management. It often used by municipalities on roads to help maintain traction. Since, ice removal is typically the concern of homeowners - sand may not be necessary.
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