Snow Removal Safety

Back Strain

When it’s time to shovel, use the following strategies to protect your back:

• Warm up beforehand by moving your body, maybe practicing a few repetitions of shoveling movements.
• Use proper equipment, ensuring that the shovel is not too long or too heavy. Space your hands out on the handle to increase your leverage.
• Try to push the snow rather than lift it. When you do have to lift, only collect small amounts at a time. Then, walk the snow to where you want to put it. Don’t throw it to the side or over your shoulder, which can force you to twist and cause injury.
• Bend and straighten your knees to lift the shovel, instead of bending at the waist. And keep your back straight. This squatting technique puts the work in your legs instead of your back and helps stop you from leaning forward.
• Listen to your body. Pace yourself and take breaks, rather than power through until the job is done. If you’re expecting a lot of snow, start early and work in shorter shifts throughout the day. This way, you won’t have to lift very heavy loads of tightly packed snow.
• Gently stretch your muscles during breaks and after you’re done.

MORE INFORMATION ON BACK SAFETY

Slip & Falls

Slips and falls are also very common during snow shoveling and can cause back and other injuries. To prevent these types of accidents:

• Spread salt or other ice-melting substances before snow starts falling.
• Wear proper footwear, such as snow boots or products you put on your shoes, such as spikes and traction devices.
• Always be on the lookout for icy patches. Don’t let a hat or scarf block your vision.
• Take small, slow, even steps.

Snow shoveling can be hazardous to your heart The American Heart Association cautions that snow shoveling may carry increased risks for a cardiac event. Clearing sidewalks and driveways of snow may be essential to keep from being shut in, however, the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, urges caution when picking up that shovel or even starting the snowblower. Research shows that many people may face an increased risk of a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest after shoveling heavy snow.   SEE HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION Want to learn Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation?  The Middleton Health Department offers free training.   Visit our page here for more information.

Snowblower Safety Although it seems to be commonsense for all, NEVER use your hands to unclog a snowblower.   The National Library of Medicine reported 27,826 hand injuries treated in emergency departments associated with the use of snow blowers for the ten-year period of 2009-2019.   SEE HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND DATA.