Snow and ice accumulation is a major part of the Alaskan winter. As snow and ice continue to buildup throughout the winter, regular removal at your home is important to the safety of your family and visitors.
Driveways And Walkways
Removing snow and ice from driveways and walkways regularly is important. If you wait, a thick layer of ice can form and make it harder to remove later. Additionally, leaving snow and ice to buildup on driveways or walkways creates a safety risk for falling when walking to your house or getting into and out of vehicles in your driveway. It is also easier to maintain a driveway or walkway rather than waiting until several inches of snow have built up.
Salt can be helpful with keeping snow and ice off driveways and walkways but can be dangerous to pets and the environment. Additionally, some temperatures are simply too cold for ice to work. Before purchasing ice, read the label to make sure it is safe for your area and lifestyle. Consider pets, plants or greenery under the snow that may be affected and wildlife. Salt can attract wildlife to your walkway and put your family in danger.
Fire Hydrants
If you have a fire hydrant on your property, take the time to remove the snow around it. If there is an emergency, firefighters do not want to deal with removing snow before being able to assist with a fire. In some areas of Alaska, the area surrounding fire hydrants is handled by the borough. If you notice hydrants are not being maintained, take initiative to report it. If the fire hydrant is on your property, spend the extra time to clean the surrounding area. Be careful not to damage the hydrant.
Look Up
Ice can accumulate around door ways and on the roof. If you notice ice crystals forming, consider removing ice from overhead to avoid falling ice when temperatures warm up. It is also important to keep an eye on snow building up on roofs. Too much snow accumulation can fall and hurt someone or cause other damage.
If you are unable to remove snow or ice yourself at your home, consider calling a professional before too much builds up. During peak winter months, it can take days for someone to come out and remove snow. If you are visiting family or friends and are injured at their home, you may need to contact an attorney to discuss your potential claims.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
