Baby, it's cold outside. Let Tom Aspell be your Snuggie and curl up in front of the fire with this week's city memo. This week is all about the treacherous white stuff falling from the sky, with a little love for Concord's historic houses thrown in for good measure.
SNOW'S HIDDEN DANGERS
Raising the roof
With all the recent heavy snowfall, some homes may be at risk for a roof collapse. Aspell advises citizens to hire a roofing expert to remove snow and ice from roofs and gutters. And no, you don't have to stop doing laundry. Just clear the snow from your heating and dryer vents, you silly goose!
I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW
Iced out cars
Aspell's got a message from the Traffic Enforcement Unit -Clear those windshields. It is illegal to drive around with snow, frost or ice obstructing the driver's view, so don't go complaining that you didn't know when you get pulled over for it. Tom Aspell gave you fair warning.
SHOVELING INJURIES
Watch your back
Sure, Aspell is a great guy. But he can't come over to every single person's house and shovel their walkway. If you get stuck shoveling this winter, play it safe with Tom's helpful tips, courtesy of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. You've got a lot to learn about proper snow shoveling techniques, you little whippersnappers.
- Shoveling can be a vigorous activity. Before you begin, warm up your muscles for 10 minutes with light exercise.
- Pace yourself. Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of fluids.
- Use a shovel that is comfortable for your height and strength.
- Try to push the snow instead of lifting it. If you must lift, do it properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent, and back straight. Lift with your legs. Do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it.
- Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This requires a twisting motion thatstresses your back.
HERITAGE COMMISSION
What's your sign?
If you're reading this memo whilst snowed in at your house, chances are you have been asking some questions about your home's heritage. Questions like “Who built this drafty old farmhouse?” “Didn't they have insulation back then?” “Why does it feel like the icy tongue of the Norse giantess Skadi is running up my spine?”
The answers to many of those questions may be found at the Heritage Commission Sign Program Workshop at the Concord Public Library. Bring in a photo of your building and learn how to apply for a Concord Heritage Commission “Heritage Sign.”
Registration is free, but space is limited. Call the Concord Public Library at 230-3682 to find out if space is still available.
So turn out the lights, let those candles glow, and let Tom Aspell keep you safe from the snow.
