How to Shovel Snow Easily

This article explains how to shovel snow quickly and easily.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Snow shovel (metal is best, but plastic with a metal tip will work also)
• Winter clothing (coat, long pants, boots, gloves)
• Snow-melting salt

1. 
   Snow-melting salt

   The best way to shovel snow is to keep an eye on the weather. The most difficult part of shoveling snow is the layer of ice packed at the bottom of the snow. If it's going to snow in the near future, sprinkle a layer of snow-melting salt on the driveway and/or walkway in preparation.

2. Wait for the snow to finish. There is no use in shoveling while it's still snowing. The salt will take care of the first bit of snow and will keep ice from forming near the ground to make shoveling easier.

3. 
   Wool gloves/mittens work best for shoveling snow.

   After the snow storm has finished, dress in warm, breathable clothing (sweat is the enemy) and be sure to grab a pair of thick gloves before you head outside.

4. Depending on the size of the space, the shoveling direction and pattern will vary. If the width of the driveway/walkway is more than four-times the width of the snow shovel, shovel a path down the middle first. If the width of the driveway/walkway is less than four-times the width of the snow shovel, shovel a path down the side first.

5. After the first path is made, start back at the beginning and shovel across the driveway/walkway, standing in the path made in the previous step. If any thick icy spaces are found, hold the shovel vertically and plunge at the ice with the metal edge on the tip of the shovel.

6. Once the snow is all shoveled, if any ice is found, sprinkle some more ice-melting salt to prevent slipping.

Tips & Warnings

• A snow shovel with a metal edge works best at chipping away ice.
• Thick wool gloves/mittens will keep your hands warm while allowing them to breathe, thus preventing sweating.
• Snow-melting salt is great at avoiding the layer of ice that forms below the snow.
• Depending on the size of the space and amount of snow/ice, shoveling snow can be very exhausting and dangerous. Please consult with your doctor with any concerns before you begin this task.