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Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION
Shovel for safety, campaign urges city homeowners
RUTH.BONNEVILLE@FREEPRESS.MB.CA Enlarge Image
Mayor Sam Katz demonstrates proper shovelling technique at the St. Vital Home Depot Thursday.
It may look like a winter wonderland outside, but sidewalk snow and ice can be a trap for those who trudge to your mailbox every day. So, please -- move it or melt it.
That's the message SAFE Work is passing along to Winnipeggers with the launch of its annual Clear the Way campaign, which kicked off Thursday at the St. Vital Home Depot.
Mayor Sam Katz and representatives from Canada Post and Manitoba Hydro were on hand to demonstrate safe shovelling techniques and to encourage citizens to participate. In addition to protecting visitors coming up your sidewalk, you may also be protecting yourself from injury or even lawsuits.
In 2007, more than 1,500 mail carriers reported injuries due to slips and falls, according to Canada Post's website. Clare Mills, a mail carrier with Canada Post, said he tries to be careful while walking his route, but that's not always enough.
"Even when you wear grips, it's very slippery," said Mills, referring to the attachable rubber soles on boots. "I have at least three falls a year."
Katz experienced this first-hand after almost slipping during a demonstration of proper shovelling techniques. After catching himself and enduring a bit of good-natured ribbing from the crowd, the mayor donned a mail carrier's letter bag and went through the basics of safe and effective snow removal.
"You don't have to pick up a lot of snow," said Katz as he shovelled his way down a mock sidewalk. "Remember to bend those knees."
SAFE Work and Home Depot are giving away a snowblower to a Winnipegger who promises to clear the sidewalks. For more information and to enter, visit safemanitoba.com
Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition January 21, 2011 A9
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