Snow is fun – until you have to shovel it or scrape it off your car. Here are 10 safety tips from HealthFinder.gov:
- Talk to your doctor. Clearing snow is physically demanding and could put a lot of strain on the heart.
- Get the proper equipment. Make sure your snow shovel is light enough to lift without difficulty.
- Dress appropriately. Wear layers of light, water-repellent clothing to stay warm and dry.
- Don't wait. Start clearing snow as soon as there's a light covering on the ground.
- Warm up and pace yourself. Snow removal is a workout. Like other physical activities, it's a good idea to do a 10-minute warm-up before you begin.
- Watch out for ice. Be careful about patches of ice and uneven surfaces. Don't allow hats or scarves to cover your eyes.
- Lift carefully. Try to push snow. If you have to lift it, use your legs.
- Use your snow blower properly. Read the instructions carefully for your specific snow blower.
- Fuel up safely. Put fuel in a snow blower before you turn it on. Never add fuel when the engine is running or hot.
- Be mindful of power cords. Always know where the power cord is when using an electric snow blower.
The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.
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