We are approaching the end of February, but this month has
brought harsh winter weather to much of the country. Snow and ice can last long
after February, which means snow plows could be out and about even in spring.
And when the plows are out, your mailboxes are in danger of being damaged.
Damage to mailboxes from plows can occur for a variety of
reasons. It may be that plows cannot see a mailbox around snow banks. Mailboxes
with a weak structural integrity may be damaged when snow from plows hits them.
Plows may damage mailboxes because of poor conditions due to the weather.
Whatever the reason, it results in a damaged or broken mailbox that needs to be
replaced.
How can you avoid this fate? There are steps you may take
before winter to reinforce your mailbox, but this late in the season it is
likely too late for that. There are some things you can do now though to keep
your mailbox as protected as possible.
Try placing an orange flag or tall post directly behind your
mailbox. This flag or post should be significantly taller than your mailbox. It
will be easier for a plow driver to see. The orange will stand out in poor
weather, and the height will help your mailbox be seen around snow banks. If
the driver can see something is on the side of the road, they are more likely
to not hit and damage it.
Another way to keep your mailbox safe is to keep the area surrounding
your mailbox clear. Shovel out the mailbox from all sides, not just the front.
By giving a clear area of several feet in front of, behind, and next to your
mailbox, snow that is pushed towards your mailbox has more space to go. Less
snow will then accumulated around your mailbox, minimizing the damage.
If the ground is not too frozen, you may also consider
securing your mailbox post. Your mailbox post should be made from a sturdy
material. For additional strength, be sure your post is sunk down a minimum of
18”.
Use these tips to minimize the damage to your mailboxes from
plows. If your mailbox is damaged, check to see if you can get it replaced for
free or at a discounted price. This will vary from place to place. But
hopefully with these tips, you won’t need to!
