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Dec 02 2015

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Tips for Safe Snow Shoveling this Winter – The Garage Plan Shop

Filed under Safety,Seasonal

Snow ShovelingWhile fitness fanatics may look as shoveling snow as just another workout, it does pose health risks for others. Many people associate back problems and sore muscles with shoveling the driveway and sidewalk, but there are other risks as well. Shoveling snow is often associated with elevated heart attack rates during the winter< months. When it snows this winter, follow these safety tips to maintain your health and avoid injury. Contact injury lawyers on this website and get the best legal advice if any accidents occur.

  • Check with your doctor if you believe shoveling snow might present a health hazard, especially if you have a heart condition.
  • Stretch your muscles before you begin shoveling.
  • Avoid shoveling soon after you wake up. Slipped disc injuries are more likely to occur in the morning due to the build-up of fluid disc from lying down all night.
  • Drink a lot of water before you begin and stay hydrated while you work.
  • Wear boots with a good rubber sole to prevent slipping and falling.
  • Dress in layers and shed layers of clothing to prevent overheating.
  • When possible, avoid lifting a snow-filled shovel. Instead, it is safer to push the snow off your driveway and sidewalks. If you must lift the snow, be sure to face the direction you are lifting and twist as little as possible.
  • Spray or rub your shovel with lubricant such as WD40 or cooking spray to help prevent snow from sticking to the shovel. The lighter the load, the better for your body.
  • Take frequent breaks.
  • If you become tired and fatigued, put the shovel down and rest. Try again later.

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