Deer Park Snow Support

Now is the time to make sure your winter weather supplies are stocked up and in good condition. Make a plan to remove snow from your walkways to keep our neighborhood safe and accessible this winter. 

This year we are organizing a list of volunteers who are willing to shovel for neighbors who might need help.

If you may need help clearing snow this winter, email snow@deerparklouisville.com with your name, address, and phone number. We can add you to the list and try to match you with a nearby volunteer when weather strikes.

If you would like to be added to the list of snow removal volunteers and potentially matched with a nearby neighbor, email snow@deerparklouisville.com with your name, address, and phone number, noting that you are willing to help. So far all volunteers live on Fernwood Avenue, but we’d love to see the same community spirit on every street in Deer Park this winter!

You will need:

• Appropriate clothes: Wear warm, layered clothing; waterproof gloves; insulated boots with good traction; and a hat.

• Shovels: Choose a lightweight, ergonomic shovel to reduce strain. A broad shovel designed for snow is ideal.

• Ice melt: Keep salt, sand, or a pet-safe deicer on hand for traction and to avoid ice storm accumulations on your walkways.

Safety first!

• Snow is heavy: Treat shoveling like exercise. Warm up first, hydrate, and take breaks as needed. Pace yourself, especially during heavy or wet snow. As with any exercise, stop immediately if you feel dizzy, short of breath, or experience chest pain. 

• Watch for hazards: Be mindful of slick surfaces, overhead hazards from heavy ice or snow, and traffic in low-visibility conditions. 

• Ask for help: If shoveling snow is not a safe activity for you, ask a neighbor for help! Contact snow@deerparklouisville.com! 

Shoveling tips:

• Start early: If a lot of snow is expected to accumulate, shovel more than once as it falls to keep the task from becoming overwhelming. Begin clearing before snow compacts or turns to ice. 

  • If a large accumulation occurs before you can get to it, you can still remove it in layers , a few inches at a time, to limit the weight of the snow. 

• Push, don’t lift: When possible, push snow to the side with your shovel instead of lifting it. This is especially helpful if you’re using a heavy shovel that isn’t specifically made for snow. 

• If lifting is necessary:

  • Bend at the knees, not the back.

  • Keep loads small.

  • Hold the shovel close to your body.

  • Avoid twisting; turn your whole body instead.

Prevent Ice

• Spread salt, sand, or deicer on walkways and steps after clearing snow.

• Reapply as needed, especially in shaded or high-traffic areas.

Prioritize 

• Stairs and entryways: Clear fully to prevent slips.

• Driveways and walkways: Remove snow down to the surface.

• Vents, hydrants, and drains: Keep these clear to prevent blockages, flooding, and safety hazards.