5 Ways to Keep the Snowy Walkway Safe for a Super Bowl Party

Hosting a Super Bowl party involves more than just prepping the guacamole and chilling the beverages. With winter weather in full swing (and an Arctic blast due this weekend for the East coasters), safety starts at the driveway.

Slippery walkways pose a serious hazard to guests arriving for the game, and nobody wants a fumble before kickoff (get it?). To keep everyone upright and ready to cheer, a clear path is essential. Here are five effective strategies to tackle ice and snow, so the only slipping happens on the field.

1. Get Shoveling Early and Often

Your best bet against a slippery walkway is to shovel the snow before it turns to ice. When snow is left to sit, foot traffic and changing temperatures can melt it just enough for it to refreeze into a dangerous, icy sheet. Shoveling early stops this from happening. Plastic shovels are usually a safer choice for concrete and pavers because metal ones can chip or scratch them.

An ergonomic shovel with a bent handle can also prevent back pain. If a big snowstorm is expected, it’s better to shovel a few times during the day instead of waiting until it’s over.

2. Spread Rock Salt for Quick Melting

Rock salt, or sodium chloride, is a classic solution for melting ice. It works by lowering the freezing point of water, turning existing ice back into liquid. While effective, it performs best at temperatures above 15°F (-9°C).

Be mindful of where you spread it; excessive salt can damage concrete over time and harm nearby plants or grass. Use it sparingly and target the iciest patches specifically. For those concerned about paws or plants, consider mixing rock salt with sand for traction rather than relying on it solely for melting.

3. Use Sand for Instant Traction

Sometimes, melting the ice isn’t an immediate option, especially in extremely cold temperatures where salt loses effectiveness. In these cases, sand provides immediate grip. While it won’t melt the ice, the gritty texture creates friction, reducing the likelihood of slips.

This is a great stopgap measure or a supplement to other de-icing methods. Because it doesn’t dissolve, you will need to sweep it up once the snow melts to prevent it from clogging drains or being tracked indoors. Keep a bucket of dry sand near the door for quick touch-ups as guests arrive.

4. Lay Down Rugs or Mats

If you want a low-tech way to improve safety, consider laying down heavy-duty outdoor mats or textured rugs over your walkways. These provide an extra layer of traction on top of slippery surfaces and can help catch moisture before it turns to ice.

Rubber-backed mats are especially effective as they stay in place on wet pavement. For the best results, make sure the mats are secured so they don’t become a tripping hazard themselves. They are a simple, reusable way to create a safer path for your guests without using chemicals.

5. Scatter Kitty Litter or Bird Seed

If you find yourself in a pinch without salt or sand, household items like non-clumping kitty litter or bird seed can serve as effective traction agents. Like sand, these materials add grit to the surface of the ice.

Bird seed has the added benefit of being biodegradable and potentially cleaning itself up as local wildlife enjoys a snack. Kitty litter absorbs moisture and provides grip, but be aware that it can turn into a muddy mess when the snow melts. These are excellent emergency backups to keep in your garage for last-minute walkway prep.

Kick Off a Safe Celebration

A little prep work can make sure your Super Bowl party is a hit for all the right reasons. Using these tips will help you create a safe and welcoming space for your guests.

Think about what you need, whether it’s keeping pets’ paws safe, protecting new concrete, or just getting the job done quickly, and pick the best tools for you. With your walkways clear, you can get back to focusing on the game, the commercials, and the snacks.