It's a good thing winter's almost over.  Snowy winter weather can bring out the best in people, like the ones who use their snowblowers to clear the sidewalk for the whole block.  It can bring out the worst in people, like the ones who shoot each other over a shoveled-out parking space.

And it can bring out the stupid in people.  You might think you're being ingenious when you take out the blowtorch to melt the ice on your front sidewalk and steps, because rock salt takes too long.

Geniuses who try this, though, often find that the flame overshoots the ice and heads straight for the house.

If it snows again this winter, be sure you're prepared ahead of time--with the right tools for the snow-removal job.

COUPON TIME

$5 off orders of $50 or more at Sears.com
Enter coupon code SEARS2011 in your shopping cart.
Some exclusions apply.
Valid through: December 31, 2011
See other Sears coupons!

50% off Painting Tools and Accessories at the Home Depot
Enter coupon code PRES50.
Valid through: March 9, 2011
See other Home Depot coupon codes!