The January Snow & Ice Safety Checklist Every Homeowner Needs

The January Snow & Ice Safety Checklist Every Homeowner Needs

January is the most dangerous month of winter for slips, falls, and property damage. Snowbanks are high, temperatures fluctuate around freezing, and ice builds up quickly on walkways and entrances. For Ontario homeowners, this is when winter property safety matters most.

Use this January snow & ice safety checklist to protect your family, guests, and property — and to avoid costly accidents during peak winter conditions.

❄️ Why January Is the Highest-Risk Winter Month

By mid-winter:

  • Snow has compacted into hard-packed ice
  • Freeze–thaw cycles create black ice
  • Salt effectiveness drops in extreme cold
  • Roof runoff refreezes on walkways
  • Emergency access can be reduced by snow buildup

👉 January is when small maintenance oversights turn into serious safety hazards.

✅ The January Snow & Ice Safety Checklist

1. Clear Snow Promptly After Every Snowfall

  • Shovel or plow within 24 hours (or sooner after heavy snow)

Pay special attention to walkways, steps, and entrances

  • Remove snow down to pavement — don’t leave a compacted base

Tip: Leaving even a thin layer of snow increases ice bonding overnight.

2. Apply Ice Melt Strategically (Not Excessively)

  • Use calcium chloride or magnesium chloride in extreme cold
  • Avoid over-salting — it damages concrete and landscaping

Focus on:

  • Entry steps
  • Ramps
  • Driveway slopes
  • Mailbox and garbage access paths

3. Watch for Black Ice Daily

Black ice often forms:

  • Overnight
  • In shaded areas
  • Near downspouts
  • On north-facing walkways

✔️ Do a quick morning and evening walk-through
✔️ Re-apply ice melt as needed

4. Control Roof Runoff & Refreeze Zones

  • Clear snow buildup near downspouts
  • Ensure downspout extensions direct water away from walkways
  • Check for ice forming where roof melt drains

👉 Unmanaged runoff is a top cause of recurring ice patches.

5. Maintain Safe Entryways

  • Clear snow from door thresholds
  • Knock down hanging icicles above entrances
  • Keep mats dry and non-slip
  • Ensure handrails are ice-free and secure

6. Keep Emergency Access Clear

  • Clear paths to:
    • Gas meters
    • Electrical panels
    • Emergency exits
  • Make sure delivery drivers and emergency responders can safely access your property

7. Inspect High-Risk Areas Weekly

Focus on:

  • Driveway edges
  • Staircases
  • Side yard paths
  • Garbage and recycling routes

January requires ongoing monitoring, not one-time clearing.

🧰 Pro Tip: Don’t Rely on “It’ll Melt Soon”

January thaws are often followed by sudden deep freezes. Melting snow during the day frequently refreezes overnight — creating thicker, harder-to-remove ice than before.

🏡 Professional Snow & Ice Management Services

At Contract Link, we help homeowners stay safe through Ontario’s toughest winter conditions with:

✔️ Residential snow removal
✔️ Ice monitoring & treatment programs
✔️ Entryway & walkway clearing
✔️ Emergency mid-winter callouts
✔️ Seasonal snow maintenance plans

👉 Request Snow & Ice Service Support

January is not the time to fall behind on winter maintenance. A proactive safety checklist protects your property — and the people who rely on it. ❄️🏠

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