Snow Fooling Around: Preparing For Snowstorms Makes Good Sense
By John J. Doherty
Commissioner of Sanitation

In each of the last three winters, New York has been pummeled by an average of 40-plus inches of snow--the highest accumulation in recorded history. These were tough years, but the city Department of Sanitation was equal to the challenge.

Perhaps we all deserve a break in the form of a mild, snow-free winter. But as Commissioner of the Department of Sanitation, I can’t afford to take such an optimistic view of our area’s unpredictable winters. My job is to prepare the Department for a worst-case scenario and advise New Yorkers to do the same. Remember, when it comes to snow, there’s no fooling around with Mother Nature.

Here are some important Sanitation rules city residents must follow, plus a few common-sense suggestions to make winter safe and more enjoyable.

Sidewalk Safety

• Whether you’re the owner, tenant, occupant or the person in charge of any lot or building, you must clear the snow and/or ice from your sidewalk within four hours after the snow has stopped falling, or by 11 a.m. if the snow stopped falling after 9 p.m. the night before.

• If the snow becomes frozen and too hard to remove, you may spread halite, sand, clean, unused kitty litter or another similarly suitable traction material within the same time limits.

• As you clear your sidewalk, keep in mind: YOU MUST NOT THROW SNOW INTO THE STREET. It’s against the law and it forces Sanitation to plow your street over again. Also, never cover fire hydrants with snow—this could interfere with emergency firefighting efforts.

• Remember, your goal is to have your sidewalk thoroughly cleaned as soon as the weather permits.

• Failure to comply with the law may result in fines ranging from $100 to $350.

Snow Shoveling Suggestions

• If your doctor has told you not to shovel snow, don’t do it . Your next-door teenage neighbor can surely use the money.

• If you’re in good health and your neighbor is disabled or elderly, give a helping hand!

• Protect your heart and your back. Don’t drink alcohol, smoke or eat a large meal before you start shoveling. When you shovel your sidewalk or driveway, wear warm layers of clothing, drink water and take frequent breaks. Push snow as you shovel. If you do lift your shovel, bend your legs and keep your back straight.

Emergency Supplies

A major snow or ice storm can knock out power lines in your area, so make sure you have flashlights and a battery-operated radio. You should also keep an emergency supply of drinking water and canned food for yourself and your family on hand.

Now that you’re prepared, relax and enjoy the rest of the winter!