Heavy Snow and Shoveling the Roof

Only the most inland-lying areas will have to deal with “heavy snow.” This is the concept of so much snow falling that your roof is in danger of collapsing – so you must get on the roof to shovel it off. However, this is the source of a lot of accidents as people do not secure themselves properly and fall off the roof. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, consult with your neighbors about the best way of shoveling it off safely.

Safety Tips

• Roofs get slippery when the snow starts to melt. Shoveling the roof is best in the morning right after the snow fall, while the snow is still compact and hard.
• Wear proper clothes: helmet, clothes that are easy to move in, non-slip gloves. You need to have feeling in your feet, so don’t wear long, thick boots.
• Always attach a safety rope （命網、meimo） and safety harness（安全帯、anzentai）. If you don’t have a special hook on the roof or other place to attach the rope, attach it to a sturdy tree or pillar on the other side of the house.
• Make sure your ladder is sturdy and steady.
• Use shovels that are light and easy-to-use.
• Never work alone. Always shovel with two or more people.
• Roof shoveling is back-breaking work. Do not attempt if you don’t think you can do it. Always take breaks and drink plenty of work.
• Always be aware of your footing. Leave the snow at the edge of the roof until the very end.
• If your roof faces the street, make sure you’re not dumping snow on to a passerby!