Ten Tips For Safe Snow Removal

It is well known that shoveling can be a dangerous sport! Here are ten tips to help you clear snow safely and avoid injury and discomfort.

1. Avoid Accumulations

Do not allow snow to accumulate: it is better to shovel small amounts more often.

2. Drink Water

Dehydration doesn’t just happen in summer! Additionally, the Public Health Agency recommends that you not shovel immediately after eating, as a full stomach puts a lot of strain on the heart during strenuous physical activity.

3. Plan Your Snow Removal

Schedule enough time in your schedule to clear snow safely, as you increase the risk of injury when you rush.

4. Warm-Up

Warm-up for a few minutes before shoveling. You can walk, go up and down the stairs, do some bending and stretching.

5. Stay Warm

Dress in layered layers and wear warm, waterproof clothing that does not retain moisture. Wear non-slip boots and be visible if you are shoveling in the dark. Make sure you are comfortable moving and cover your head, ears, hands, and face well.

According to the Center for Occupational Health and Safety, you shouldn’t shovel when it’s -40 ° C or when the thermometer reads -25 ° C, and it’s windy (never underestimate the wind factor when the time comes to set foot outside).

6. Spread Abrasives

Spread salt or sand to increase grip and thus reduce the risk of falls.

7. Choose The Right Shovel

Your shovel should be lightweight, plastic, or aluminum (but the handle should be plastic or wood, as the metal gets too cold).

Bet on a snow push type model. Do you want a good tip for safe snow removal? Get a shovel with an ergonomically curved handle.

8. Use The Proper Technique

With your feet hip-width apart, hold your shovel close to your body with your hands shoulder-width apart and push the snow out. If you are forced to lift snow, bend your knees – don’t lean forward! Lift only a little snow at a time and move instead of throwing it. Never throw snow over your shoulder or to the side.

9. Keep The Rhythm

Shovel at a steady pace and take breaks. If you feel unwell, stop.

10. Work As A Team

Remove snow together: you will have half the work (and possibly more fun!) And you will not be alone if you feel unwell.

Sometimes the best advice for safe snow removal is to leave the job to someone else. Indeed, shoveling may be contraindicated: being overweight, having heart or back problems and a sedentary lifestyle, for example, require a visit to the doctor. What if you’re just tired of shoveling – after a three-foot snowfall, who’s going to blame you? – you can always hire a snowplow! Read about earth development cedar Rapids