It might sound like magic, but banishing snow from your driveway without lifting a finger is a trick that's within reach for Calgarians.

Although we've already gotten our first doses of snow, winter is (technically) still just around the corner, with many more cold days and tons of the white stuff to come.

Unfortunately, winter is also the season that tends to reveal and worsen issues within the home, so there's no time like the present for some proactive maintenance. A bit of extra effort now could save you countless headaches when temperatures drop.

Here's a handy checklist to get you started:

It's still only October, but thanks to COVID-19 and Calgary's fickle weather, it's time to start planning for winter. After a summer full of park picnics, patio meals and backyard hangouts, the arrival of cold weather and the wet stuff will require a pivot to winter-appropriate outdoor activities. And if the rush to snag home fitness gear and bikes this spring/summer was any indication, equipment for traditional winter sports might soon be hard to find.

Here are a few ways you can stay active and social in and around Calgary this winter:

Believe it or not, winter is coming. Ensuring that your home's cold-weather systems are running efficiently will save you both money and major headaches in the long run. Work your way through this fall home maintenance checklist and you can rest easy knowing that your home and yard are ready for winter:

Tips for safe and warm winter cycling

When winter arrives, many Calgarians store their bicycles away until springtime.

But not everyone.

A growing number of people cycle year round, including during their daily commute. And in the winter, that requires some additional preparation.

City launches 11th annual campaign promoting snow safety and community spirit

For Calgarian Tom Daumler and his family, taking the time to shovel their neighbour's driveway after a heavy snowfall isn't a big deal.

"We have a neighbour who is older, and [we] know that they (are not) able to do it. So it just made sense for us to keep doing it," he said. "Depending on which member of our family does it — whether it's me, my wife or my kids — we all go out and make sure we shovel both sides so it helps them.