Seattle is giving away snow shovels now. Here's how to get one

SEATTLE — It may be tough to look ahead through all the raindrops falling across western Washington, but winter is around the corner.

The city of Seattle is partnering with other departments to launch a pilot program in which they will give away free shovels to Seattle residents in hopes of encouraging snow shoveling. The city will also provide ice melt and shoveling tips, according to its website.

Residents must register by Saturday to “receive yours before winter weather arrives,” the city wrote. “Equipment is available while supplies last.”

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To register, residents must contact the captain of their neighborhood block watch, which can be found on the city’s website. If your street doesn't have a block watch captain, the city said to email your request for snow shoveling equipment to 684-Road@seattle.gov.

In Seattle, property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalks adjacent to their property, according to the city.

“They must make sure snow and ice does not pose a hazard to pedestrians,” the city says. “They must also repair cracks and other damage.”

The city advises residents to stock up before storms: have a snow shovel ready, plus a bag of street salt, warm clothes, extra blankets, flashlights, first-aid kit and supply of food/water/medicine for at least three days.

“Sprinkle rock salt (or another environmentally friendly product) on your sidewalk, walkways, and curb ramps to prevent ice from forming,” the city writes, adding that homeowners should clear sidewalks every 12 hours before snow turns to ice.

The city also provides a winter weather preparedness checklistonline.

In another pilot program through the city, Seattleites can volunteer to help seniors and people with mobility challenges "get out the door and where they need to go by clearing the sidewalks and walkways near their homes." Anyone interested is urged to reach out to the captain of their block watch.