The winter season technically does not start for another month, but winter weather has undeniably descended upon us.
The only relief we can expect until spring at this point is the occasional Chinook.
So we might as well get used to the snow, which to everyone's collective chagrin means finding the time and energy to clear driveways and perhaps even more importantly, sidewalks.
For the most part, residents largely seem to be staying on top of the situation so far. Despite a few exceptions, there are plenty of perfectly cleared sidewalks to be seen throughout town. Those who make the effort should be commended, and those who enjoy getting around on foot ó even in the cold ó undoubtedly appreciate being able to walk comfortably without the constant fear of slipping and falling haunting their every step.
Of course chances are no one particularly enjoys grabbing the shovel to scoop the most recent dump of snow off of the driveway and sidewalk.
"Oh boy, look at all the snow that fell last night ó there must be at least a foot. I can't wait to shovel!" said no one ever.
Except maybe some local children who are looking to make a few extra bucks from neighbours who are more than happy to pay a keen, energetic kid to tackle the tedious task.
Perhaps not so commonly known is how physically arduous and demanding the chore can potentially be ó every year, overexertion throughout the country leads to numerous health problems ranging from minor or major backaches to cardiac arrest.
In other words, people with heart or breathing problems, pregnant women, as well as senior residents should be particularly wary not to overexert themselves. In fact, they would probably be well advised to avoid putting themselves at risk in the first place.
So we at the Round Up encourage those who are physically capable to consider becoming snow angels to help out neighbours who might for whatever reason be temporarily or permanently unable to clear the snow themselves. Ideally, clearing the sidewalks before people have walked over them makes the job much easier than putting it off for days until the snow is so hard-packed you might as well replace the shovel with a pickaxe.
While people who are fully physically capable of clearing snow but still cannot be bothered to lift a finger should be warned before being fined, residents who notice a nearby sidewalk that is not being cleared might consider first asking their neighbour whether that person needs assistance.
If so, consider becoming their snow angel ó not only will they be grateful, but so will everyone else who uses the sidewalks.
ó Simon Ducatel is the Round Up's editor
