BUFFALO, N.Y. — After a massive amount of snow has come down on many parts of Western New York, the public is advised to keep up with the cleanup as safely as possible.
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz made an announcement saying that residents should take the time to clear pathways as to not block the sidewalks.
Some students may have school on Friday as usual, which causes a concern for those who walk to and from school on icy and unclear pavement.
“School-age children rely on clear sidewalks to get to and from school and other activities,” Poloncarz said.
As for the students who rely on public transportation, Erie County has also advised residents responsible of clearing the public property of the bus routes as well.
The Erie County Department of Senior Services shared that during this difficult time of the winter, elderly adults or those with health issues are also to be looked out for.
The reminders that the Erie County has issued follows:
- WARM UP: Shoveling is an aerobic exercise. As with any workout, a quick 5-10 warm up that includes moves like stretching or marching in place will get your blood flowing to slowly and safely increase your heart rate, and increase flexibility in the joints and muscles that you’ll be using.
- DRESS APPROPRIATELY: Dress warmly and in layers. Cover your head, face, and hands. Take a break if you become overheated. Keep feet dry and warm by wearing waterproof, insulated boots with skid protection to help protect you against slips on hidden ice.
- USE A SMALL SHOVEL: Remove snow in small sections to avoid strain and prevent injuries that heavier loads could cause.
- STAY HYDRATED: Remember, you’re working out. Keep a water bottle handy just inside the garage or doorway to your home and take sips about every 15 minutes.
- SHOVEL IN INTERVALS: Shoveling frequently, say every 2 inches of snowfall or so, will help avoid having heavier loads to remove as a storm progresses. If it’s not safe to go out, wait until conditions improve and then work in sections and take breaks frequently. Set time limits and only shovel for a maximum of 15-20 minutes at a time.
- USE SMART BODY MECHANICS: Lift with your knees, not with your back. Use the shovel to push the snow instead of lifting and throwing it.
- PHONE A FRIEND: Don't shovel alone. Work with a friend or neighbor to keep areas clear. If you must go out alone, phone a friend or family member before you go out to shovel, and again once you're safely back inside.
- DON’T: If local officials should happen to advise against leaving the house or going outdoors due to extreme conditions, be sure to heed their advice and hold off on snow removal all together until it is safe to go out.
Another concern that the severe amount of snow has bough brings the attention to fire safety.
NOCO and other companies, along with local fire departments, has called for the publics help to clear furnace vents and fire hydrants of snow. This will help keep homes safe from allowing carbon monoxide to build up.
“Making sure the vents are clear of snow will help your furnace continue to run efficiently and safely,” said Pierre Aubertin, the director of sales and energy solutions at NOCO.
First responders say that they need the publics help to fight the fire faster during the difficult weather by clearing about 3 feet around the nearby hydrant.
It is up to us to work together and look out for our city of good neighbors in times of need, and especially snow.