Ensure Snow and Ice Removal Readiness

What happens in this clip

Regular snow and ice removal is critical for maintaining safe access to your home, particularly important during a power outage to reach outdoor alternative power sources like generators or propane tanks, and for emergency personnel. Inspect your snow shovels and ice scrapers for damage and replace them if necessary. Ensure your snow blower is in good working condition, has a full fuel tank (and fresh fuel if it's a gas model), and consider having extra fuel stored safely. Stock up on ice melt, sand, gravel, or kitty litter for traction on walkways. When choosing de-icing products, prioritize options that are safe for pets, lawns, and septic systems, especially if they are applicable to your property.

Goal: Prepare for snow and ice removal by checking and maintaining tools like shovels, scrapers, and snow blowers, and stocking up on pet-safe de-icing agents or traction materials.

What's used

Tools

• Fuel Can (e.g.
• Scepter 1 1/4 GAL / 5 L Self-Venting Fuel Can)
• Ice Scrapers
• Snow Blower
• Snow Shovels

Materials

• Fresh Fuel
• Ice Melt / Salt
• Gravel
• Kitty Litter

About the full video

This video provides comprehensive outdoor winter safety tips, focusing on precautions and preparations to mitigate risks associated with cold weather, heavy snowfall, and potential power outages. It covers snow and ice removal, managing ice dams and hazardous tree branches, ensuring adequate outdoor lighting, maintaining essential outdoor equipment, and preparing your vehicle for winter conditions, all with an underlying emphasis on maintaining safety and functionality during extended power disruptions.

Step 5 of 5: Implement Snow and Ice Melting Solutions

To proactively manage snow and ice, consider installing heated stair mats designed for outdoor use. These mats plug in and generate heat to melt snow and ice on contact. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for placement and electrical connections, ensuring safe outdoor electrical practices. Alternatively, ensure you have a sufficient supply of safe, effective de-icing agents on hand. This could include rock salt (sodium chloride), calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, or eco-friendly alternatives. Store them in an accessible location, ready for application when snow or ice begins to form.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Keep Outdoor Stairs Safe in Ice and Snow

1. Step 1: Inspect Existing Stairs

   • 0:00–0:15 Observe Existing Outdoor Stairs
   • 0:15–0:26 Evaluate Stair Safety
   • 0:00–0:17 Initial Visual Assessment of Step Construction

2. Step 2: Clean Stair Surfaces

   • 0:19–0:32 Clean Outdoor Wooden Surfaces
   • 1:12–1:14 Clean and Dry Steps
   • 1:13–1:37 Prepare the Surface

3. Step 3: Apply Anti-Slip Treads

   • 0:02–0:06 Apply Anti-Slip Strip
   • 0:51–4:06 Apply Adhesive-Backed Anti-Slip Products
   • 0:09–0:15 Understand Anti-Slip Product Options

4. Step 4: Install or Reinforce Railings

   • 0:24–0:42 Check Railing Height
   • 2:39–3:22 Check Railing Stability
   • 4:56–5:38 Attach Handrail

5. Step 5: Implement Snow and Ice Melting Solutions

   • 0:03–0:07 Apply De-Icing Salt to Surfaces
   • 0:07–0:20 Prepare Ice Melt and Traction Materials
   • 0:35–1:06 Ensure Snow and Ice Removal Readiness (this video)