Ice melt is typically a mix of Calcium Chloride, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Chloride, and Magnesium Chloride. Calcium Chloride is effective to -15°F or -26°C. Beneficially, it is a product that melts ice a bit faster and can be used without damaging surrounding garden area. It can only be used on cured cement - not new cement. You can use less Ice Melt product than you would rock salt. While it is safer overall for the garden, if you have pets this still might not be the preferred choice for a pet safe sidewalk as chloride of any kind can irritate paws.