What Can I Do to Ensure My Fuel Delivery When It Snows?

November 11, 2025

It’s the time of year for family gatherings, festive meals and memory-making. And while you and your loved ones are enjoying the holiday season, our expert drivers are working hard to provide all our customers with prompt, reliable heating oil and propane deliveries. In order for them to perform their job to the best of their abilities, they need a clear path to your oil fill pipe or propane tank. 

That’s why Stafford Oil & Propane would like to remind you to keep your sidewalks, paths, and driveways clear of snow and debris this late fall and winter.  It’s the best way to ensure safe, dependable fuel deliveries!
 

Tips on how to shovel safely
At Stafford Oil & Propane, safety is at the heart of everything we do – and we take your safety as seriously as ours. Before grabbing a shovel and heading outdoors into the New Hampshire snow, here are some tips on how to shovel safely:

Health and Preparation

• Warm up: Treat shoveling like a workout. Perform light stretches for your arms, legs, shoulders, and back for 5-10 minutes before starting to loosen muscles and prevent injury.
   
• Dress in layers: Wear several layers of light, water-repellent clothing. This provides insulation and allows you to remove layers if you get warm. Wear a hat, scarf, and waterproof boots with good traction.​​​​​​​
   
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water or sports drinks before, during, and after shoveling, as dehydration is a risk in cold weather.​​​​​​​
   
• Avoid stimulants: Do not consume caffeine or nicotine before or immediately after shoveling, as they can place extra stress on your heart.​​​​​​​
   
• Listen to your body: Stop immediately if you feel pain, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort. These can be signs of a heart attack, and you should call 911. 

Proper Shoveling Technique

• Push, don't lift: Whenever possible, push the snow to the side instead of lifting it. This is much easier on your back.
   
• Lift with your legs: If you must lift, bend at your hips and knees (squatting motion), not your back. Keep your back straight, tighten your stomach muscles, and lift by pushing up with your legs.
   
• Keep the load small and close: Only scoop small amounts of snow at a time, especially if it's wet and heavy. Keep the shovel load close to your body to reduce strain on your spine.
   
• Avoid twisting: Do not throw snow over your shoulder or to the side by twisting at the waist. Instead, pivot your entire body and point your feet in the direction you are dumping the snow.
   
• Pace yourself: Take frequent breaks (for example, every 15 minutes) to rest and stretch. Shovel for short periods rather than to the point of exhaustion.
   
• Shovel early and often: Fresh, powdery snow is much lighter than packed or partially melted snow. Clear snow multiple times during a large snowfall to avoid heavy loads. 
   

Equipment

• Use the right shovel: Choose a sturdy, yet lightweight, ergonomic shovel with a curved handle that reaches chest height.
   
• Improve traction: Spread salt, sand, or kitty litter on walkways to prevent slips and falls on icy patches. 
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If you are unable to shovel yourself, please ask a friend or neighbor for assistance and let us know ahead of time.

Thank you for helping us help you! If you have any questions about your heating oil or propane deliveries, please call us at 603-524-1480 or contact us.

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