Remove snow from the roof edge and valleys with a roof rake
Clear gutters and downspouts of ice and debris
Break up small ice dams carefully from the ground or a ladder with proper safety gear
Use calcium chloride in a sock or nylon placed across the ice dam to create melt channels
Apply warm water to small problem areas if conditions allow
Improve attic insulation to reduce heat loss
Seal air leaks between the living space and attic
Increase attic ventilation
Keep gutters clean before winter
Install heat cables along roof edges and in gutters if needed
Hire a licensed roofing professional for large or stubborn ice dams
Avoid chopping ice with sharp tools
Avoid using rock salt on the roof
Avoid climbing onto an icy roof