6 Tricks to Dealing With Snow Removal in Red Deer

Hey there, neighbour! Winter in Red Deer is here, and you know what that means—the season when your driveway transforms into a snow-covered obstacle course and your morning workout consists of battling the white stuff.

If the thought of shovelling makes you want to hibernate until spring (we don’t blame you!), you're in the right place.

We've rounded up six tricks to make snow removal less of a chore. So grab a hot cocoa and cozy up.

Tricks for Snow Removal in Red Deer

Trick #1: Follow the City's Snow Removal Bylaw

In Red Deer, snow removal isn’t just about keeping your property tidy; it’s a larger responsibility that helps ensure the safety of your community. The City’s snow and ice program emphasizes maintaining clear sidewalks, safe roadways, and accessible trails, making it crucial for homeowners to understand and follow the rules.

According to local bylaws, residents are required to clear sidewalks adjacent to their property within 48 hours of snowfall. Neglecting this could lead to fines, not to mention the icy glares of your neighbours.

A key point to remember: don’t push snow onto public roads. It creates hazards for drivers and more work for snowplows. Red Deer uses a coloured route system to prioritize snow clearing on streets based on traffic levels. Knowing where your street stands in this priority list can help you plan your own snow removal schedule.

To stay ahead, consider tracking your neighbourhood’s snow removal updates. Local apps or city resources can keep you informed about snowfall alerts and planned clearing activities. This ensures you’re not caught off guard by sudden snowfalls or city inspections.

Clear sidewalks mean fewer slips and falls, and complying with city rules helps snow-clearing teams work more efficiently. A little diligence can go a long way toward making Red Deer a safer, snow-smart city during the harsh winter months.

Trick #2: Keep a Good Shovel on Hand

When it comes to snow removal, your shovel is your trusty sidekick. But not all shovels are created equal, and having the right one can make the difference between a quick, efficient job and a backbreaking ordeal.

Consider your needs before actually buying one. Ergonomic shovels are great for reducing strain, while push shovels are perfect for lighter snowfalls. If you’re dealing with heavy snow, a snow scooper or a wheeled shovel can save you from exhaustion.

Beyond the tool, your technique matters. Avoid the classic rookie mistake of bending at the waist and hoisting with your back. Instead, squat slightly, use your legs to lift, and try not to twist as you toss. Clearing smaller amounts of snow at a time is also a game-changer. Sure, it may take a few extra passes, but your spine will thank you later.

Trick #3: Don’t Rely on Chinooks to Clear Your Property

While Chinooks are great for thawing out your frozen fingers and offering a brief respite from the cold, relying on them for snow removal might not be the best idea.

Waiting for Chinooks to melt the snow on your property can lead to slippery, hazardous walkways as the melted snow refreezes overnight into a treacherous skating rink.

Instead of leaving it to Mother Nature’s sporadic mood swings, it’s best to clear snow as soon as possible after a storm. The sooner you tackle it, the easier the job, and the less chance there is for ice to form.

And while Chinooks are perfect for taking a sunny winter stroll, they’re definitely not your snow-clearing fairy godmother. Grab your shovel, or better yet, call in the pros.

Trick #4: Invest in Professional Snow Removal Services Early On

The fact is: it’s no one’s idea of a good morning to wake up with the impending battle of clearing the driveway hanging over their heads. This is where professional snow removal services come to the rescue.

Booking your service early not only secures your spot before the rush but can also land you a reliable service. Plus, when that first big snowfall hits, you’ll already be on the priority list while others are scrambling to find last-minute help.

Professional snow removal isn’t just about saving your back, it’s about reclaiming your time. Whether you have a sprawling property or just want a stress-free winter, the convenience of leaving it to the experts is unmatched. Look for a provider who’s insured, experienced, and equipped to handle Red Deer’s frosty challenges. Green Drop, for instance, offers tailored services designed to keep your property safe and snow-free all season.

Trick #5: Salt and De-Ice Strategically

When it comes to keeping your walkways and driveways safe during winter, salt and deicers are your best allies. But just like seasoning, a little goes a long way, and overdoing it can leave you with damaged concrete, unhappy plants, and a driveway resembling a salt mine.

Next, timing is everything when it comes to de-icing. For best results, sprinkle a light layer before the snowfall to make snow removal easier and prevent ice from bonding to the surface. If you’re tackling already-formed ice, ensure even coverage and focus on problem areas. Just resist the temptation to toss salt around like confetti.

Trick #6: Shovel Often, Not Harder

When it comes to snow, procrastination is not your friend. Shovelling at regular intervals during a snowfall is far easier than battling a heavy, compacted mound the next day. You want to tackle small piles at a time, and save yourself from a mountain of regret later.

Clearing snow in intervals prevents it from packing down and freezing into an icy crust. Start early, and as the snow continues to fall, shovel in layers. You’ll save your arms and back, and also the whole process will feel more manageable. Plus, you’ll thank yourself when your walkways stay clean and safe instead of a treacherous slip hazard.

For heavy snowfalls, pacing is key. Begin by clearing a path from your door to the driveway or sidewalk, then widen the cleared areas gradually. Break the job into smaller sections to avoid overexertion.

Let It Snow, But Let Green Drop Handle It

Don’t let the snow pile up just because you don’t have the time to take care of it. Green Drop’s professional snow removal services are here to save the day not only in Red Deer but also in Calgary, Regina, Saskatoon, and Edmonton.

From driveways to sidewalks, we’ll keep your property safe and snow-free all winter long.

Ready to enjoy a hassle-free winter? Pick the snow removal plan that’s right for your property, and let us handle the heavy lifting.