Snow removal tips to stay safe
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Getting rid of all that white stuff can be tough on your body. Every winter, doctors and chiropractors see an influx of shovelling related injuries. And even deaths.
A number of people have died in this snow storm. At least two of those deaths are being blamed on heart attacks suffered while shoveling. So this is advice you’re going to want to listen to.
Unless you’ve got one of these tractors. Snow removal can be a pain. But it doesn’t have to be.
“It’s good exercise, so that’s probably why I don’t use a snow blower or anything.”
Shoveling can burn well over 300 calories per hour. But if you’re not careful, it can damage your back.
What not to do? Lift and twist.
Instead, push the snow, bend your knees, and then lift. An ergonomic shovel can help with that.
Steve Lugger, The Home Depot: “The handle on the snow shovel is basically designed with a curve in it. So that actually gives you a better angle. it kind of forces you to bend your knees.”
Even with proper form, lifting too much snow can strain your heart.
If you’re not in good shape, you should avoid shoveling in the morning. That’s when your blood is most at risk of clotting. You should get up, spend at least 30 minutes around the house, warm up your muscles and then go outside.
Chiropractor Dr. John Strebul: “Go up and down the stairs a little bit. Do some stretches of their back, of their shoulders.”
To save your heart and back, take breaks and pace yourself.
Strebul suggests: “Lighter and more often is always better than thick and heavy snow.”
Using a snow blower quickens the job, but be mindful if you’re working on a slant.
Lugger: “On a bank or something, then you have to be a little more careful because if it does topple, it’s a heavy unit and you’re going to hurt yourself for sure.”
When you’re stocking up this season, you may also want to keep your pets in mind. Paw-friendly de-icers make sidewalks safe for walking, and snow safe for playing.
Older people are much more likely to have an injury or heart attack while shoveling. So, if you see a neighbour who could use a hand, tonight might be a good time to help them out. Or contact Volunteer Hamilton and join the Snow Angels brigade. They go to senior’s home and shovel them out.
