Ice melt can become ineffective in extremely low temperatures

Some types of ice melt can stop working if temperatures drop below -5 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ground temperatures in mid-Missouri are below freezing, but a hardware store employee said ice melt should continue working.

Eric Farless said the frigid temperatures Wednesday morning were close to making ice melt become ineffective.

He said the best time to apply ice melt is before snow has the chance to freeze.

“It’s going to be beneficial for shoveling and removal later on,” he said.

According to Columbia city ordinance, property owners must keep sidewalks clear of ice and snow. Residents could face a penalty of up to $500 per day.

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