Tips to shovel driveways and avoid being plowed in

A man uses a snow blower to clear a driveway in Barrie, Ont. (CTV Barrie)

With winter in full swing, many residents are bracing for the familiar challenge of clearing snow only to find a heavy ridge pushed back across the end of their driveway.

While that can’t be prevented entirely, the City of Barrie says a few simple habits can make shovelling easier and help reduce how much snow ends up back where you just cleared.

According to the City, snowplows push snow from the centre of the road toward the curb. That means residents can help themselves by placing shoveled snow on the right-hand side of the driveway when facing the street.

Officials note this small adjustment can lessen how much snow is pushed back across the opening when plows pass through neighbourhoods.

Create A Pocket

The City also points to a commonly recommended trick used in many Canadian municipalities: creating a small “pocket” or cleared space along the curb, just before the driveway.

This pocket gives snow from the plow somewhere to settle, instead of landing directly in the driveway entrance.

While it won’t eliminate the snow ridge entirely, the City says it can help make what does come back noticeably lighter.

Work With the Weather

City officials also stress working with the weather and not against it is key.

Clearing snow a few times during a storm, instead of waiting for it to finish, prevents buildup and reduces the risk of packed, icy layers forming.

City crews say this approach helps residents manage snow in smaller, safer amounts.

Parking Reminders

Another reminder from the city is to keep vehicles off the street during winter events.

When cars are parked at the curb, plow operators have less space to work with, which can lead to larger piles being pushed onto nearby driveways.

Street parking can also slow down plowing routes and make it harder to clear snow curb-to-curb.

Safe Shovelling

The City highlights the importance of safe shovelling techniques, including lifting smaller amounts of snow, bending at the knees rather than the back, and taking regular breaks, especially during heavy, wet snowfalls.

The City advises residents to use caution with snowblowers and notes that packed snow should never be removed with bare hands.

Residents can also track city plows to find out when they will head down your street and plan clearing the driveway around the plow.