Professional Snow Shoveling Services in Abington

Abington Snow Shoveling Services & Manual Snow Removal

Abington, MA requires all property owners to clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their properties within 24 hours after the end of any snowfall or freezing precipitation, as stipulated by the local ordinance. This snow clearing requirement is applicable to both manually shoveled sidewalks and those cleared by mechanical means, ensuring immediate compliance obligations regardless of the chosen removal method. Manual snow shoveling is especially important in Abington for maintaining safe passage on narrow walkways, protecting historic brick or stone surfaces, and preventing damage to landscaping that can occur with snow plows or blowers. However, it is essential for individuals undertaking manual shoveling to recognize the unique physical demands and safety concerns associated with this task, including the need for proper technique and personal preparation.

Abington Public Works Department
500 Gliniewicz Way, Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (781) 982-2122
Official Website: Abington Public Works Department

Health and Safety Warnings for Snow Shoveling Activities

Medical research consistently identifies snow shoveling as a high-risk cardiac activity, with incidents of heart attacks rising significantly following major snow events. The combination of cold temperatures, which constrict blood vessels, and the strenuous exertion of lifting heavy, wet snow creates a dangerous situation, particularly for individuals over 45, those with cardiovascular conditions, or those who do not engage in regular physical activity. These risks are further elevated for people with pre-existing health concerns such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

American Heart Association - Heart Attack Warning Signs
Phone: (800) 242-8721
Official Website: American Heart Association

• High-risk groups who should avoid manual snow shoveling:
  • Adults over 50 with cardiac history or risk factors
  • Individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
  • Those recovering from heart attacks or cardiac procedures
  • People with musculoskeletal conditions or balance impairment
  • Sedentary individuals lacking regular cardiovascular conditioning
• Cardiac warning signs requiring immediate 911 response:
  • Chest discomfort, pressure, or tightness
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, or nausea
  • Cold sweat, unusual fatigue or weakness
  • Discomfort in arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach

Research shows heart attack risks can increase by nearly 20% following snowstorms, with the majority of events occurring during or immediately after shoveling. Individuals in high-risk groups are strongly advised to arrange for professional snow removal services, seek help from family, neighbors, or explore municipal assistance programs, rather than attempting manual shoveling themselves.

Accessible Path Requirement for Manual Snow Clearing

Abington’s Sidewalk Snow Removal Ordinance establishes clear requirements for sidewalk snow removal, in line with ADA accessibility standards. These requirements ensure that sidewalks are kept accessible to all, including wheelchair users and individuals with mobility devices. Property owners must maintain a minimum 42-inch wide cleared path or the full width of the sidewalk, whichever is less, to meet ADA standards.

Massachusetts Office on Disability
One Ashburton Place, Room 1305, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 727-7440 | TTY: (800) 322-2020
Official Website: Mass Office on Disability

• Accessible path clearing standards:
  • Minimum width: 42 inches clear for wheelchair passage
  • Clear to pavement: Remove snow completely, exposing the walking surface
  • Ice treatment required: Apply sand, sawdust, or ice melt after clearing
  • Curb ramp priority: Clear ramps entirely, including the bottom transitions
  • Cross-slope management: Prevent ice dam formation creating barriers
• Critical accessibility considerations:
  • Clear ramps before general sidewalks, prioritizing accessibility
  • Avoid piling snow blocking accessible parking spaces or access aisles
  • Maintain tactile warning surface functionality at curb ramps
  • Ensure level transitions without ice ridges at crossings
  • Keep catch basins clear, preventing flooding and refreezing hazards

Senior Citizen and Disability Snow Shoveling Assistance Programs

Abington and other Massachusetts communities offer assistance programs to help seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents comply with snow removal laws. These initiatives are crucial for populations where physical limitations make manual shoveling unsafe or impossible. Programs are typically managed by municipal agencies and supported by volunteers, providing vital safety services during winter storms for vulnerable community members.

Abington Council on Aging
441 Summer Street, Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (781) 982-2145
Official Website: Abington Council on Aging

• Available snow shoveling assistance programs:
  • Municipal Programs: Age-based eligibility (typically 60+ years), disability verification, application during fall enrollment periods, limited availability based on volunteer capacity, priority for isolated seniors with no family support
  • Community Volunteer Networks: Neighborhood snow angels programs, youth service organizations, faith-based congregation networks, online volunteer matching platforms
• How to access assistance:
  • Contact the local Council on Aging or senior services department
  • Register during pre-winter enrollment (October-November)
  • Verify eligibility with age or disability documentation
  • Understand service limitations (typically walkways and steps, not full driveways)
  • Maintain backup plans when volunteers are unavailable

Environmental Protection and Sustainable Snow Shoveling Practices

Manual snow shoveling in Abington offers opportunities for environmentally responsible practices that protect both property and local ecosystems. Careful manual clearing reduces the need for salt, helps preserve landscaping, and minimizes harm to trees, shrubs, and lawns. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (Mass DEP) encourages sustainable winter maintenance practices to safeguard water quality, green infrastructure, and natural habitats from the adverse effects of chemical de-icers and improper snow placement.

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
One Winter Street, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 292-5500
Official Website: Mass DEP

• Environmentally-friendly manual shoveling practices:
  • Minimize salt application: Use sand or sawdust for traction instead
  • Protect tree wells: Avoid piling salt-contaminated snow around trees and planted areas
  • Strategic snow placement: Pile snow in areas where spring melt will not damage landscaping
  • Green de-icing alternatives: Consider calcium magnesium acetate or beet juice-based products
  • Storm drain protection: Keep catch basins clear without depositing salt-heavy snow nearby
  • Landscaping preservation: Avoid scraping metal shovels against delicate surfaces

Snow Shoveling Services Throughout Abington Neighborhoods

Our professional snow shoveling services extend throughout Abington's diverse neighborhoods, providing manual clearing for properties where precision, surface protection, or access limitations require hand-work rather than mechanical equipment.

Abington Center Historic District: This area features historic homes and brick sidewalks, requiring careful manual shoveling to protect original surfaces and maintain accessibility. Tight walkways and older landscaping demand precision and low-impact clearing methods.

North Abington Residential Streets: Characterized by narrow sidewalks and mature trees, this neighborhood benefits from manual shoveling to avoid tree root damage and to clear paths alongside densely planted yards. Many homes have front steps and walkways too small for plowing equipment.

Highland Terrace & Hilly Terrain Areas: Stepped drives and sloped walkways in these neighborhoods make mechanical snow removal impractical. Manual shoveling prevents surface gouging and ensures safer passage on stairs, terraces, and uneven ground.

Landscaped Subdivisions (e.g., Glenwood Place): Properties with extensive landscaping, garden beds, and decorative hardscapes require hand shoveling to prevent damage to delicate plantings and stonework. Manual clearing allows for selective snow placement and preservation of curb appeal.

Multi-Unit & Senior Housing Complexes: Facilities with multiple entrances, ramps, and accessible pathways need manual snow removal to ensure all residents, including those with mobility aids, have safe, unobstructed routes. Extra attention is needed for ramps and communal walkways.

Commercial Centers (Bedford Street Corridor): High pedestrian traffic and storefront access points necessitate prompt manual shoveling of sidewalks, steps, and entryways. Businesses must comply with accessibility standards while minimizing disruption to landscaping and storefront displays.

South Abington Single-Family Homes: Many homes here feature long, narrow walkways and private steps that require careful, hand-performed snow removal for safety and to prevent damage to pavers or custom surfaces. Elderly residents may need assistance with shoveling obligations.

School Zones & Community Facilities: Sidewalks and approach areas serving schools, parks, and municipal buildings require manual attention to clear curbs, crosswalks, and ramps thoroughly. Ensuring accessibility and pedestrian safety in these busy areas is essential, especially during school hours and community events.