Q Is there a deicer that's safe for concrete and doggie paws?
A There probably is no deicer that's "safe" for concrete and pet feet, but some are safer than others. All should be used sparingly.
Safe Paw Ice Melter (www.safepaw.com) is less irritating to pet paws than traditional sidewalk deicers and better for the environment, according to National Geographic's Green Guide.
When ice won't yield to snow shovels, ice chippers are the tools to use. They're available at hardware and home stores for $15 to $30.
If they're not available, or don't do the job, then spread deicer. But read the labels and pick your product carefully:
• Sodium chloride (rock salt) kills plants and grass, poisons soil and can lead to concrete problems and damage metal.
• Calcium chloride works at very low temperatures, but also can result in concrete problems.
• Potassium chloride doesn't work in extreme cold, but is kinder to plants and concrete.