Getting Ice Off Stairs

Apply deicing salts to the steps. Sprinkle enough to cover the step. You may use rock salt, calcium chloride or magnesium chloride to melt the ice. You may mix it with sand if you prefer.

Shovel as much ice and snow off the steps as possible.

Place a heated mat on the step if you have access to an electrical outlet.

Chisel the ice from the stairs with a hammer and chisel or similar implement if your stairs are sturdy enough to withstand the pounding. This is the most physically difficult option, but you can clear more ice this way than with a shovel, and you can get it off the steps instead of leaving melted ice to re-freeze.

Pour boiling water on the steps to melt the ice quickly. Before you try this method, be aware of the temperature. If it is too cold, water simply freezes and makes the step more dangerous.