Useful Tips
Shoveling Out From a Winter Wonderland
November 17th, 2006
The first snowfall of the season can be a picturesque and happy timeof year and a lot of fun for those who want to find the nearest hillfor sledding or start building a snowman. While fresh white snow canpeacefully blanket the landscape and inspire all kinds of winter activities,for those left with snow removal duties it can be not only a chore butliterally dangerous.
According to the most recent statistics by the U.S. Consumer ProductSafety Commission, nearly 76,000 injuries related to use of snow shovelsand snow blowers were treated at hospital emergency rooms, doctors' offices and clinics last year (2005). Injuries ranged from lacerationsand bone fractures to finger amputations. The possibility of an orthopedicinjury is high when it comes to removing light fluffy snow which canbecome as heavy as small boulders once it begins to pile up on the ground.
"Using the proper equipment for snow removal, like a shovel that fitsyour hands and height, or a snow blower that is in good working condition,can minimize the risk of musculoskeletal injury," said Dr. William N.Levine, MD, orthopedic surgeon. "It's also important to keep from over-extendingand over-exerting muscles and lift snow correctly by using your legsto bear the weight - this can greatly reduce the possibility of injury,especially to the shoulder and low back" he said.
Followingare helpful tips for clearing snow safely:
- Check with your doctor first. Because snow removal places high stress on the heart, you should always speak with your physician before taking on this kind of activity. If you have a medical condition or do not exercise regularly, seriously consider hiring someone to remove the snow.
- Warm-up your muscles. Snow shoveling and snow blowing are aerobic activities, comparable to weightlifting. Before you begin this physical workout, warm-up your muscles for 10 minutes with light exercise.
- Dress appropriately. Light, layered, water-repellent clothing provides both ventilation and insulation. It is also important to wear an appropriate head covering, as well as mittens or gloves and thick, warm socks.
- Pace yourself. Take frequent breaks and replenish fluids to prevent dehydration. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath or other signs of a heart attack, seek emergency care, such as by calling 9-1-1.
- Clear snow early and often. Begin when a light covering of snow is on the ground to avoid shoveling packed, heavy snow.
- Use a shovel that is comfortable for your height and strength. Do not use a shovel that is too heavy or too long. Space your hands on the tool grip to increase your leverage.
- Push the snow instead of lifting it, but if you must lift, do it properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs, without bending at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it. Holding a shovelful of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once; do it piecemeal
- Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This requires a twisting motion that stresses your back.
- See what you are shoveling/snow blowing. Do not let a hat or scarf block your vision. Watch for ice patches and uneven surfaces. Avoid falls by wearing shoes or boots that have slip-resistant soles.
- Read the instruction manual. Prior to using a snow blower, read the instruction manual for specific safety hazards, unfamiliar features, and whenever attempting to repair or maintain the snow blower.
- Never stick your hands in the snow blower! If snow becomes impacted, stop the engine and wait more than five seconds. Use a solid object to clear wet snow or debris from the chute. Beware of the recoil of the motor and blades after the machine has been turned off.
- Add fuel before starting the snow blower. Never add fuel when the engine is running or hot. Do not operate the machine in an enclosed area.
- Do not leave the snow blower unattended when it is running. Shut off the engine if you must walk away from the machine.
- Watch the snow blower cord. If you are operating an electric snow blower, be aware of where the power cord is at all times.
- Be careful when unclogging snow and ice from a snow blower. Protect yourself by using something other than your hands to unclog a snow blower. Exercise caution even when the power is shut off since there may be unreleased tension on the blade which could spring forward once the obstruction is removed.
SOURCE: American Academy of OrthopedicSurgeons (AAOS)
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