Snow flagging is one of the most efficient ways to reduce snow plow damage. There are a few things to keep in mind when snow flagging. First, snow flagging is intended to help establish snow piles. Snow flags are not meant to last through an entire winter. With that being said, flagging is an important part of the snow removal process. We use colored 2″ by 2″ snow flags on a 17″ metal staff. It is important to use a colored flag so that it stands out in the white snow. A 2″ by 2″ flag is sufficient size for night-time visualization. Snow flags should be tall enough to ensure that they are visible during a large snow storm. Flags that have too long of staff will tend to fall down or bend.
How should snow flagging be done?
It is best to use several different colored flags. Red flags can be placed around objects that you need to stay away from such as drains and easily damaged areas. Red flags can also mark areas where you should not pile snow. Snow flagging of sidewalks should consist of using one colored flag. It is important to mark both sides of the beginning and end of the sidewalk to highlight it where it runs. Depending on the length of the walk, it may be necessary to flag middle sections of the walk as well. A different colored flag should be used to mark parking areas. Generally you should mark the corners of the parking lot, sections of the curb that protrude into the lot and entrances and exits as well. Depending on the size of your lot, you may need to add flags on long stretches of curb. After the first snow, you should have your hard-surfaced areas clearly defined. Snow flagging will help get you though the first couple of snows for the season.
