MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) – Blue Collar Scholars in Montgomery County handles snow removal for about 100 homes and businesses. On Friday, owner Sam Forline said he and his crews are gearing up for a winter storm system that could bring several inches of snow and ice to the area. “A lot of it is hand shoveling,” Forline said. “Churches like this one, we’ll use more of the snow machines, getting the snow out. But after you take care of the snow, that’s when you lay down the ice melt or the salt.” Forline says it’s imperative that they get ice and snow removed from stairs, walkways and driveways as quickly as possible. Weather causes early closing of schools in Washington County “Ice is the biggest thing that can hurt you,” he explained, “and every year we have at least three clients who get hurt going out.” Speed is important for other reasons too. “Every single jurisdiction has laws,” Forline said. “You must clear everything within 24 hours, and if you don’t, you’re held liable if somebody falls. Then, there’s also the commercial side of things. Commercial, they need to take care of it because if someone slips and falls on their property, a lawsuit is a lot more expensive than paying somebody to clear the snow.” Forline says his team takes pride in keeping community members safe. “You get to see the fruits of your labor,” he said. “You know, the snow was there and now it’s not and everything is clean. It does feel good.” Forline encourages anyone thinking about going with a business for snow removal to reach out as soon as possible rather than waiting until the last minute.