Besides
last winter’s anomaly of great weather, winter in Western New York is full of
snow removal. Injuries are really common with snow removal. About 16,500 people
are treated in emergency rooms annually for injuries related to manual snow and
ice removal, while over 6,000 people are treated for injuries occurring while
using a snow blower. The most common
injuries associated with snow removal include sprains and strains, particularly
in the back and shoulders, as well as lacerations and finger amputations.
Hopefully these tips can keep you from heading to the emergency room this
winter.
Before the season, you should
get checked out by your doctor to make sure that you are okay to do the
strenuous activity of snow removal. It places high stress on the heart and
back, among other things. Dress appropriately; wear light, layered, water
repellent clothing with proper head coverings, gloves/mittens, boots, and
nothing with strings. The strings can get caught in the snow blower. Try to get
the snow removed early, when there is only a light covering as opposed to
letting it get heavy and packed. Make sure you have a clear vision; no scarves
or hats over your eyes. Watch out for ice patches.
Snow Shoveling
- Warm up first. It sounds silly, but loosening your muscle before you shovel can help prevent injuries. Shoveling is just like any other exercise.
- Pace yourself. Don’t try to remove the snow in five minutes. Take your time, take plenty of breaks and drink water when you need it.
- Use a shovel that’s appropriate for you height and strength. Using a shovel that is too long or too heavy, it will cause that much more stress on your body.
- Try to push the snow instead of lifting it. If you must lift the snow, do it properly. Bend your knees and use them to lift. Scoop small amounts on the shovel, walk to where you’re dumping it and put it there. Holding a heavy shovel with your arms stretched out can cause injuries.
- Don’t throw the snow over your shoulder or off to the side. It causes your body to twist and potentially injure your back.
Snow Blowing
- Never fill your snow blower’s gas tank in an enclosed area. Do it out in the open. Fumes from the fuel can ignite easily and cause an explosion. Never add it while the engine is running or hot.
- Never stick your hands in the snow blower. If it jams, turn the machine off and wait a few seconds. Use something solid to clear the clog.
- Never leave the snow blower running unattended. If you must walk away, turn it off.
- Stay away from the engine. It gets very hot and can burn exposed flesh.
- If you are using an electric snow blower, be very cognizant of the cord at all times and where it is.
- Do not remove any safety shields or other safety features. They are there for a reason.
- Beware of the motor and blades recoiling after you turn the machine off.
- Keep children away from the snow blower at all times.
- Understand your machine. Read the owner’s manual and follow all the instructions for use and care.
There are other tips for safety after a storm. You can check WKBW’s tips here. Using rock salt is a good way to melt down
ice before trying to remove snow. Shovels are best for light snow, while
heavier snow should be plowed or snow blown. Don’t be afraid to call a
professional if you feel overwhelmed. Use a roof rake on your roof when safe to
keep your roof from getting damaged from snow melt or ice. If it gets to be too
much on the roof, don’t hesitate to call a contractor to remove the snow and
ice before you need to call a contractor to repair your roof. If you get too
cold during snow removal, go inside and take a break. Hypothermia can occur
rapidly. Have a safe and fun winter!
