[BlindTlk] Using A Snow Blower

Mon Mar 4 20:18:03 UTC 2019

I agree with Anita.  For me, the smaller the better, depending on the space you are trying to clear.  

Judy

-----Original Message-----
From: BlindTlk [mailto:blindtlk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Sherri via BlindTlk
Sent: Monday, March 4, 2019 10:58 AM
To: 'Blind Talk Mailing List'
Cc: Sherri
Subject: Re: [BlindTlk] Using A Snow Blower

Being in Florida, I don't have to worry about this, but what an ingenious idea!  Very well-explained.

Sherri

-----Original Message-----
From: BlindTlk [mailto:blindtlk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Judy Jones via BlindTlk
Sent: Monday, March 04, 2019 12:42 PM
To: 'Blind Talk Mailing List' <blindtlk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Judy Jones <sonshines59 at gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [BlindTlk] Using A Snow Blower

Hi, Anita,

What a great post.  May I post this on our Blind Know-How FB page and e-mail list?

Thanks very much.

Judy

-----Original Message-----
From: BlindTlk [mailto:blindtlk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Gadget Girl via BlindTlk
Sent: Monday, March 4, 2019 12:00 AM
To: Blind Talk Mailing List
Cc: Gadget Girl
Subject: Re: [BlindTlk] Using A Snow Blower

Hi Dave.

We have an approximate 190 feet by 16 feet sloping driveway shoveling area.  In the fall, we take tall wooden stakes and pound them into The ground with a hammer while the ground is still soft.  I want to say the stakes are about 48-inches Long by 2-inches Wide by 1-inches Deep.  You can purchase the wood with straight edges and cut the corners to make a pointed edge, for a cheaper option; or, you can purchase them by the bundle with a pointed edge  from any home-improvement store.  We found them at Home Depot.  After the stakes are installed, we wrap and tie knots using a rope around each stake, forming a fence along the edges of the driveway to trail.  Be sure not to place your rope fence too low so the snow will pass through.  We like to build this in the fall so when winter comes, it is nice and firm and can withstand the power of the snow blower.  When it snows, you can then go out with your cane and use that fence as a guide to keep you straight.  Since I know the driveway is 16 feet, I go to the edge, walk 8 feet in, and start there since I know that is the middle.  When walking up to do the first pass, I’d turn the chute to the right and start walking.  When I get to the point where it’s time to turn around, I turn around, turn the chute to the left and start walking.  When done with that side, I’d go back to the center and do the other side.

When choosing a snow blower, you have to decide which one you’d like.  Consider your driveway plowing area, length of driveway, terrain, and how long it would take you.  Then think of powering the machine.  Do you want electric or gas?  If you want gas, do you want a two-cycle or four-cycle engine?  Two-stage or three-stage machine?  Picking a two-cycle machine may have a smaller engine and usually requires you to mix oil with the gasoline to operate.  Picking a four-cycle machine requires you to pour straight gasoline only into the machine for operation using a gas can and funnel.  I find filling the machine using a 5-gallon can is very heavy.  I got a smaller can to transfer gas into for easier handling/filling.  Next, consider your features.  Do you want a self-propelling machine?  Headlights?  Heated handles? Width of the snow blower? A wind/snow shield (a sold separately accessory)?  The features are endless as you can find machines from as little as$260 plus, all the way up to over $2600!  Just remember, the sales associate will try to sell you everything available including what you may not need.  So consider your needs carefully, as each option cost money.  Even though I can’t see, I still wanted headlights so others can see me.  Other family members agreed on them as well.  The self-propelling feature was definitely a must-have for our family!  Machine basically propels itself and practically becomes featherlight to push, even uphill.  We also picked a model which had an optional cover/Wind shield (purchased separately).  Some of our snow storms can be brutal, leaving storm totals of 16-inches and above.  With heavy, wet snow, it is advisable not to let the snow pile up before clearing some away.  That’s where the clear vinyl cover/wind shield comes in handy; providing shelter/protection over the Area in which you will be standing.  It shields you from the wet, blowing snow, freezing rain pellets, hail, and gusty chilly winds.  With the heated handles, it keeps your gloves warm and dry.  Oh, I forgot to mention the wheels.  You’ll want to make sure your Machine has beefy wheels and not the wimpy ones (for better traction).  We got snow blowers for different applications.  My Husband has a massive one which I have never operated alone.  However, I did push it with him and it was very simple to push and maneuver.  I also like the models with an electric start.  The electric start makes it easier to start machine with the pull start cord.  Once you get the machine started, you unplug it from the wall.  One thing I will tell you is, I would stay away from the electric snowblowers — The ones that have to stay plugged in while you use them.  Firstly, they shorten your plowing distance; and secondly, you could run over the cord, cut The live cord, and end up electrocuting yourself.   

Snow removal is dangerous for a blind person.  You must pay attention at all times and stay alert.  I never engage in conversation.  I wear a whistle that is loud when blown which I purchased from the boating store, West Marine.  If I need help, I will shut the machine off and blow The whistle until assistance comes.  I try to always use the buddy system, never go out a loan. Make sure your machine comes with a snow removal tool to remove snow out of your machine.  Shut the machine off and never stick your hands into the auger!  In addition, I have pasted some links to helpful websites below for furthering your knowledge prior to stepping into a store to purchase. Good luck in your search.

Snow Blower Buying Guide (Interactive Video) | Consumer Reports:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyYs4Kyg3_E

> https://primereviews.org/snow-blower-vs-snow-thrower/ 
Lastly, it was very scary for me when I did it.  You are standing behind this big machine pushing it forward without the use of a cane.  When you first get started, always use cited help and guided assistance.  As you become more familiar and confident, it will get easier.  Before the snow comes, you may wish to practice your driveway and walkways.  That is, remembering curves, drop offs, Low hanging tree branches, bushes and shrubs, etc.  there are small units as well as largeer ones.  I would start off with a small unit, but that’s me. You choose whatever you feel comfortable with; don’t let anyone talk you into anything.  My first time plowing was very scary.  I couldn’t see a thing in the machine was very loud. I wanted to quit after taking out a shrub!  It took a couple of winters to learn the skill.  Now that my husband has big toys, I let him play alone in the sandbox. LOL.  I am now going to get one of those power shovels.  We do, however, keep the buddy system going.  No one in our family uses power equipment without the buddy system and a phone in their pocket — especially with the wild animals running around!  Although coyotes don’t usually like to face people, there are some that are brazen or may be rabid, as some people have been attacked.  Hope this gives you some insight.

Regards,
Anita

> On Mar 3, 2019, at 5:29 PM, David Andrews via BlindTlk <blindtlk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
> I am looking for any totally blind person who has experience independently using a snow blower, or power snow shovel.  Any tips or experiences would be appreciated, or is this something I shouldn't do.  Gas versus electric? etc.???
> 
> Dave
> 
> 
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