Safe Ways to Clean the Snow Off the Roof by Yourself

Create a Path

• Before you begin to remove the excess snow off your roof, take the time to shovel a walking path in the area you will be working. Although this might sound like additional and unwanted work, a safe walking path will reduce the potential of falls.

Snow Rake

• Snow rakes are a common tool of choice for snow removal from a roof. Snow rakes look similar to an extra-wide garden hoe with long handles. Most snow rakes are available in handle lengths up to 16 feet long. Forget appearances and wear protective headgear to safeguard yourself from falling snow and ice. Place the rake on the roof and gently pull the snow off the roof. Stand back as far as possible to prevent being hit by falling snow. In the event of a large snowfall, do not attempt to remove all of the snow at once. Remove small amounts of snow at a time and repeat on the opposing plane of the roof. This will keep the weight distribution even and minimize the possibility of roof damage. Remember, you do not need to remove all of the snow. Scraping the shingles may damage your roof. If possible, rake your roof on a routine basis rather than waiting for a large accumulation. Most important, never use a roof rake near power lines.

Shoveling

• If possible, avoid climbing onto your snow covered roof. A collapsed roof might be a small price to pay compared with the possibility of injury or death. However, if you decide to pursue this hazardous task, use safety precautions. Use the buddy system or at least make sure someone nearby is aware of your intentions. Dress appropriately for the job. Wear insulated boots with gripping soles. Dress in layers. This will not inhibit your range of motion as much as a single bulky coat. Use a ladder that extends two to three rungs above your roof. If possible, anchor the ladder to your house. Secure yourself with a rope or safety harness. This may seem silly, but you will be grateful for the extra precaution if you fall. Use a lightweight plastic shovel with a telescoping handle and gently shovel the snow off your roof.

Cleanup

• Remember, in some cases what falls needs to be cleaned up. Remove fallen snow on sidewalks and driveways as you go rather than waiting for a large buildup. According to a 2009 study by the "American Journal of Emergency Medicine" there are "an estimated 11.500 snow shovel-related injuries and medical emergencies treated annually" in U.S. emergency departments. Shoveling heavy snow can cause muscle injury, as well as increase the chance of heart attack.