Shoveling snow can be a physically demanding task, especially during winter. To ensure your safety and make the process more manageable, here are some snow shoveling dos for winter warriors:
1. Dress Appropriately:
- Wear layered clothing to keep warm. Avoid heavy, bulky clothing that restricts movement.
- Wear moisture-wicking and insulated materials to stay dry and prevent overheating.
- Don’t forget a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect your extremities.
2. Warm Up:
- Engage in light stretches and warm-up exercises to prepare your muscles for the physical activity.
3. Choose the Right Shovel:
- Opt for a shovel with an ergonomic design and a handle that allows for a comfortable grip. An adjustable handle can help you find the right height for your body.
4. Shovel Early and Often:
- Clear snow in smaller increments to avoid dealing with a heavy accumulation.
- Shovel snow early to prevent it from compacting and becoming more difficult to remove.
5. Use Proper Shoveling Techniques:
- Push the snow whenever possible instead of lifting it. If you have to lift, use your legs, not your back.
- Keep your back straight and bend your knees when lifting. Use your leg muscles to do the heavy lifting.
6. Pacing and Rest:
- Take frequent breaks to prevent overexertion. Shoveling snow is physically demanding work.
- Listen to your body. If you feel fatigued or experience discomfort, take a break.
7. Maintain Good Footing:
- Ensure you have stable footing on a flat surface before you start shoveling.
- Wear non-slip footwear to prevent slipping on icy surfaces.
8. Hydrate:
- Even in cold weather, drink water to stay hydrated. Physical exertion can cause dehydration.
9. Shovel During Daylight:
- Shoveling during daylight hours offers better visibility, reducing the risk of accidents.
10. Keep Snow Close:
- When shoveling, try to push snow to the sides rather than throwing it far. This minimizes strain on your body.
11. Engage Your Core:
- Use your core muscles to stabilize your body while shoveling, which can help prevent back strain.
12. Clear Obstructions:
- Before you start shoveling, remove any obstacles or debris that could get in your way.
13. Communicate:
- Let someone know that you’re going outside to shovel snow. If there’s an accident, someone will be aware and can check on you.
14. Lift Safely:
- When lifting snow, keep the shovel blade close to your body and avoid twisting your torso.
15. Salt or Sand Walkways:
- After shoveling, apply salt or sand to prevent ice buildup on walkways and driveways.
16. Be Mindful of Your Heart:
- Shoveling snow can be a cardiovascular workout. If you have heart conditions, consult your doctor before shoveling.
Remember, safety comes first when shoveling snow. Following these dos will help you avoid injuries, strain, and accidents during winter shoveling. If you have any health concerns, consider seeking help or using mechanical aids to assist with snow removal.
