why can't people sand their sidewalks!
By onesiobhan
@onesiobhan (1327)
Canada
February 11, 2008 9:38pm CST
I live in a small street where everybody is responsible for shoveling and sanding their own sidewalk. And less than half the people on the street do it with any regularity! We had a thaw and freeze cycle here a couple of days ago, so now all the sidewalks are covered in a sheet of ice. The streets are mounds of snow covered in ice, so I can't even get around it by walking on the road.
I'm able-bodied, so although it takes me longer I can manage it. But anybody who is elderly or has mobility problems is essentially trapped in their own home because their neighbours are so inconsiderate.
It drives me crazy! But when it's almost the entire street that is guilty, what can you do?
1 response
@iheartpolkadots (30)
• United States
12 Feb 08
I don't know how cold it is there, but when it gets too cold, salting the sidewalks is useless becuase it won't work when its too cold, so maybe they are trying to deice, but because of the cold, its not a possible.
The sidewalks are usually the cities responsibility to clean rather than the residents of the houses, maybe try calling your city and complaining! Its at least worth the try!
@onesiobhan (1327)
• Canada
12 Feb 08
That's why I specifically mentioned sand. Sand or gravel works no matter what the temperature - it doesn't melt the ice, but it adds friction so people don't fall. I use an salt substitute that is supposed to be more ecologically friendly - I haven't noticed that it works differently at different temperatures, but I'll have to watch and see.
In Toronto, sidewalks are the responsibility of the homeowner. We're given 12 hours to clean the sidewalk after the snow falls. It doesn't seem to be enforced though, because some people never do it at all! Maybe I should call the city just to complain.
